1.04 Preliminary Statement of Elements of Crime

In order to help you follow the evidence, I will now give you a brief summary of the elements of the crime[s] charged, each of which the government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt to make its case:

First, [_________];

Second, [_________];

Third, [_________];

etc.

[The description of the crime in this preliminary instruction should not simply track statutory language but should be stated in plain language as much as possible.]

You should understand, however, that what I have just given you is only a preliminary outline. At the end of the trial I will give you a final instruction on these matters. If there is any difference between what I just told you, and what I tell you in the instruction I give you at the end of the trial, the instructions given at the end of the trial govern.

Comment(s)

This instruction is derived from Eighth Circuit Instruction 1.02 and Ninth Circuit Instruction 1.02.