Keywords: Montana Jury Instruction, 12.12.1 General Instruction, types Montana Jury Instruction — 12.12.1 General Instruction is a set of guidelines given to jurors to help them understand their role and responsibilities during a trial. This instruction provides general information on how jurors should approach and evaluate the evidence presented in a case. It aims to ensure that jurors remain unbiased and reach a fair and impartial verdict. This general instruction can be further categorized into different types based on the specific aspects it addresses. Following are some common types of Montana Jury Instruction — 12.12.1 General Instruction: 1. Jury Duty: This type of instruction educates jurors about their civic duty and emphasizes the importance of their role in the justice system. It explains how jurors are selected, the significance of their presence in court, and the impact their decisions can have on the lives of individuals involved in the case. 2. Presumption of Innocence: The presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle in criminal cases. This instruction highlights that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. It clarifies that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and the defendant does not have to provide any evidence or testify in their defense. 3. Burden of Proof: This instruction focuses on the burden of proof required in a criminal or civil case. It explains that the prosecution or the plaintiff has the responsibility to prove their case by presenting evidence that convinces the jury of the defendant's guilt or liability. 4. Standard of Proof: This type of instruction discusses the standard of proof necessary to reach a verdict and render a judgment. In criminal cases, the standard is "beyond a reasonable doubt," meaning the evidence must be so convincing that there is no reasonable doubt of the defendant's guilt. In civil cases, the standard is typically "preponderance of the evidence," which means the evidence must favor one party over the other, even if only slightly. 5. Expert Testimony: In cases where expert witnesses may testify, this instruction provides guidance on how jurors should consider and evaluate their testimony. It emphasizes the importance of assessing the expert's qualifications, credibility, and the methodology employed to reach their opinions. It is essential for jurors to carefully listen to and understand the Montana Jury Instruction — 12.12.1 General Instruction, as it forms the basis of their decision-making process. These instructions aim to ensure that jurors possess the necessary knowledge and guidelines to analyze the evidence and reach a fair and just verdict.