Jury instructions refer to a set of guidelines and directives given by a judge to jurors before they begin their deliberations in a trial. These instructions are intended to help jurors understand the legal principles that apply to the case, as well as any specific rules or procedures relevant to the particular court proceeding. The goal is to ensure that the jury reaches a fair and impartial verdict based on the evidence presented during the trial. Jury instructions typically cover topics such as the burden of proof, presumption of innocence, reasonable doubt, and the standards for conviction or acquittal. They may also address issues related to witness credibility, the consideration of extraneous information, and the proper role of jurors in reaching a decision. Overall, jury instructions serve an important function in ensuring that trials are conducted fairly and efficiently according to established legal principles.