Virginia Jury Instruction — Assaulting A Federal Office— - Without Use Of A Deadly Weapon provides guidance to jurors in cases involving the charge of assaulting a federal officer without the use of a deadly weapon. This instruction is crucial in ensuring a fair and just trial for both the defendant and the prosecution. In such cases, it is essential for the jury to understand the elements of the offense, the burden of proof, and the potential consequences associated with the charges. The following are relevant keywords that encompass different aspects of this jury instruction: 1. Assaulting a Federal Officer: This instruction focuses on the act of physically attacking or attempting to physically harm a federal officer. It includes offenses such as assault, battery, or any act that intentionally causes an unwanted physical contact with the federal officer. 2. Without Use of a Deadly Weapon: This jury instruction differentiates cases where a firearm or other deadly weapon is used to assault a federal officer from cases where physical harm is caused without the involvement of deadly weapons. The absence of a deadly weapon influences the level of severity and potential penalties. 3. Elements of the Offense: Jurors must understand the specific elements required to convict a defendant of this charge. The instruction helps define these elements, which may include proof of intentional acts, direct physical contact, lack of consent, and knowledge of the victim's federal officer status. 4. Burden of Proof: This instruction emphasizes that the burden of proving the defendant's guilt rests solely on the prosecution. The jury needs to be informed of the high standard of proof, which is beyond a reasonable doubt, ensuring the defendant's presumption of innocence until proven otherwise. 5. Consequences and Penalties: The jury must consider the potential ramifications of a guilty verdict. The instruction may inform jurors of potential imprisonment, fines, probation, or other legal repercussions associated with the offense. It is important to note that variations or additional instructions may exist depending on the specific circumstances of the case, such as aggravating factors or previous convictions. The jury instruction serves as a guide to ensure a consistent legal process and fair decision-making while considering the unique circumstances revolving around assaulting a federal officer without using a deadly weapon.