Shreveport Louisiana Defendant's Requested Jury Instructions, also known as jury charges or jury directions, are specific instructions provided by a defendant during a trial to guide the jury in making a fair and informed decision. These instructions serve as a roadmap for the jury, highlighting key legal principles, standards of proof, burdens of persuasion, and applicable laws relevant to the case being tried. There can be various types of Shreveport Louisiana Defendant's Requested Jury Instructions, each tailored to address specific legal issues. Some common types include: 1. Burden of Proof Instructions: These instructions outline the defendant's desired explanation about the burden of proof that the prosecution must meet in order to achieve a guilty verdict. They may clarify that the burden rests solely on the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. 2. Reasonable Doubt Instructions: These instructions elucidate the concept of reasonable doubt and ensure that the jury understands the high standard required for a conviction. The defendant may request instructions that guide the jury in evaluating evidence and reminding them that mere suspicion or possibility is insufficient for a finding of guilt. 3. Presumption of Innocence Instructions: These instructions emphasize the fundamental principle that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The defendant may request instructions that reinforce this presumption and explain its significance during deliberations. 4. Elements of the Crime Instructions: These instructions outline the specific elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. The defendant may request detailed instructions on each element of the crime charged, highlighting inconsistencies or deficiencies in the prosecution's evidence. 5. Jury Credibility Instructions: These instructions focus on the credibility of witnesses and evidence presented during the trial. The defendant may request instructions that highlight the importance of assessing witness credibility, evaluating inconsistencies, biases, or motives that may affect testimony. 6. Lesser Included Offense Instructions: These instructions deal with circumstances where the defendant is charged with a more severe offense, but there is also a possibility of a lesser offense being committed. The defendant may request instructions that inform the jury about the option to consider a lesser offense if they are not convinced of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt on the primary charge. 7. Self-Defense Instructions: In cases involving claims of self-defense, the defendant may request specific instructions that outline the legal standards and principles related to justifiable use of force, imminent threat, and reasonable belief of danger. It is important to note that the specific requested jury instructions may vary depending on the nature of the case, the charges, and the defense strategy employed. The defense attorney will carefully draft and tailor these instructions to present a persuasive case that benefits the defendant's interests and legal rights.