Who has the responsibility to instruct the jury about the law?

The responsibility to instruct the jury about the law falls to the judge, who acts as an impartial authority in the courtroom. This role is critical because the judge is tasked with ensuring that the jury understands the legal principles that are applicable to the case they are deliberating. During their instructions, the judge clarifies not only the relevant laws that the jury must consider but also how those laws relate to the specific facts of the case.

While the prosecutor, the clerk of the court, and the defendant's attorney all play important roles in the judicial process, they are not responsible for legally instructing the jury. The prosecutor presents evidence and argues on behalf of the state, the clerk of the court handles administrative tasks and maintains the court's records, and the defendant's attorney advocates for the defendant's rights and interests. However, it is ultimately the judge who must ensure the jury is accurately informed about the law, facilitating a fair and just legal process.