Maine Jury Instruction — 1.3.1 Civil Rights Act 42 USC Sect.1981 Race Discrimination In Employment Discharge — Failure To Promote General Instruction is a legal instruction designed to guide juries in cases involving race discrimination in employment discharge or failure to promote under the Civil Rights Act, specifically Section 1981. This instruction provides specific guidelines for jurors to understand and apply when evaluating cases involving allegations of race discrimination in employment matters. The purpose of this instruction is to ensure that jurors have a clear understanding of the legal requirements and standards applicable to race discrimination claims. It helps them assess the evidence presented in the case and reach a fair and impartial verdict based on the law. The instruction may vary depending on the specific elements and facts of each case. In general, the Maine Jury Instruction — 1.3.1 Civil Rights Act 42 USC Sect.1981 Race Discrimination In Employment Discharge — Failure To Promote General Instruction may cover the following key points: 1. Elements of the claim: It explains the necessary elements that the plaintiff must prove in order to establish a claim for race discrimination in employment discharge or failure to promote. These may include demonstrating that the defendant took an adverse employment action, that the action was motivated by racial discrimination, and that the plaintiff suffered harm as a result. 2. Definition of race discrimination: It defines race discrimination in the context of employment, emphasizing that it occurs when an employer treats an employee or applicant less favorably because of their race, color, or national origin. 3. Proper burden of proof: It clarifies that the burden is on the plaintiff to prove that race discrimination was a motivating factor in the adverse employment action, meaning that race was a substantial and motivating factor behind the decision. 4. Employer's defense: It explains that the defendant may raise a legitimate non-discriminatory reason for the adverse employment action as a defense. If the defendant can demonstrate a valid reason for the action, the burden shifts back to the plaintiff to prove that the reason is merely a pretext for discrimination. 5. Evaluating evidence: It instructs the jury on how to evaluate the evidence presented during the trial, considering both direct and circumstantial evidence. Jurors are guided to assess the credibility and weight of witness testimonies, documents, and any other relevant evidence. Overall, Maine Jury Instruction — 1.3.1 Civil Rights Act 42 USC Sect.1981 Race Discrimination In Employment Discharge — Failure To Promote General Instruction lays out the legal framework and standards that jurors should follow when deliberating on cases involving race discrimination in employment discharge or failure to promote claims. It aims to ensure a fair and impartial assessment of the evidence, encouraging jurors to make informed decisions based on the law.