Maryland Jury Instruction — Identification Testimony is a set of guidelines provided to juries in Maryland courts that specifically focuses on evaluating and assessing the reliability and credibility of identification testimony provided by witnesses. This instruction is crucial in criminal cases where the identification of a suspect is a fundamental element of the prosecution's case. The purpose of the Maryland Jury Instruction — Identification Testimony is to assist the jury in properly weighing and assessing the identification evidence presented during a trial. This instruction emphasizes the importance of carefully considering various factors that may affect the accuracy of identification testimony, such as witness credibility, memory reliability, situational stress, and potential biases. There are different types of Maryland Jury Instructions — Identification Testimony that may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the case: 1. General Instruction: This type of instruction provides a comprehensive overview of the factors that the jury should consider when evaluating identification testimony. It includes elements such as the witness's opportunity to observe, the consistency of the identification, the cross-racial identification challenges, and the presence of suggestive procedures. 2. Expert Testimony: In certain cases, the court may allow expert witnesses to testify on matters related to eyewitness identification. Such expert testimony can provide added insight into the potential flaws or limitations of eyewitness identification and aid the jury in understanding the complexities involved. 3. Specific Circumstances Instructions: In some situations, specific instructions may be necessary to address particular circumstances or concerns related to identification testimony. For example, if the identification was made based on a photo lineup, the court may provide specific instructions on evaluating the reliability of such identification procedures. 4. Jury Deliberation Instruction: Once the jury has heard all evidence related to identification testimony, they may receive an instruction to guide their deliberations. This instruction reminds the jurors to consider all the relevant factors discussed earlier and highlights the need for caution when relying solely on identification evidence in reaching a verdict. In conclusion, the Maryland Jury Instruction — Identification Testimony is designed to ensure that juries carefully assess the credibility and reliability of identification testimony. By considering various factors and receiving clear instructions, juries can make well-informed decisions regarding the accuracy of identification evidence in criminal trials.