Legal Definitions - formula instruction

A formula instruction is a direction or guideline that a judge gives to a jury about the law of the case. It is also known as a jury instruction or charge. The purpose of a formula instruction is to help the jury understand the legal principles that apply to the case and to guide them in reaching a verdict.

For example, in a criminal trial, the judge may give a formula instruction to the jury about the elements of the crime that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. The instruction may explain what constitutes evidence and how the jury should evaluate it.

Another example of a formula instruction is a model jury instruction, which is a standardized statement of the law that is approved by a state bar association or similar group. Courts usually accept model jury instructions as authoritative.

Overall, formula instructions are important because they help ensure that the jury understands the law and applies it correctly to the facts of the case.