Wisconsin Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Short Form is a standardized set of instructions provided to jurors at the beginning of a trial in Wisconsin. These instructions serve to guide jurors on their duties, responsibilities, and the legal principles they must follow during the trial process. One type of Wisconsin Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Short Form is the instruction guiding jurors on the burden of proof. It informs jurors that the burden of proving the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt rests solely on the prosecution. The instruction emphasizes that the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Another related type of Wisconsin Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Short Form may include an instruction on the importance of impartiality. Jurors are informed that they must approach the trial with an open mind, free from any bias or prejudice towards either the prosecution or the defense. It stresses the need for jurors to base their decision solely on the evidence presented in court. Furthermore, the Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Short Form may also include an instruction on the role of the judge and the lawyers during the trial. Jurors are informed that the judge's role is to ensure a fair trial, while the lawyers' role is to present their respective cases and arguments. Additionally, the instruction may highlight the importance of jurors paying close attention to the evidence and witnesses presented. Overall, Wisconsin Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Short Form provides jurors with an essential foundation on how they should approach the trial, reminding them of their obligations, while also emphasizing key legal principles such as burden of proof and impartiality. These instructions help to ensure a fair and just trial process in accordance with Wisconsin law.