Orange, California Jury Instruction — 2.2 With Comparative Negligence Defense is a legal instruction given to jurors during civil trials in the Orange County Superior Court system. This instruction provides guidance on how to consider and apply the legal concept of comparative negligence when determining liability in cases where both the plaintiff and defendant are alleged to have contributed to the harm or damages suffered. Comparative negligence is a legal principle that allows for the allocation of fault and responsibility between the parties involved in a lawsuit based on their respective degrees of negligence. By considering the actions or omissions of both the plaintiff and the defendant, the jury can determine the percentage of fault attributable to each party and assign proportionate liability. This particular instruction, 2.2, specifically addresses cases where the defendant asserts a defense based on comparative negligence. It instructs the jury on how to evaluate the evidence presented and make a fair determination of fault. The instruction typically covers the following key points: 1. Explanation of Comparative Negligence: The instruction provides a clear definition and explanation of comparative negligence, emphasizing that it is an affirmative defense that the defendant has the burden of proving. 2. Applicable Standards: The instruction outlines the legal standards and guidelines that the jury should follow when considering the evidence and apportioning fault. It may include references to relevant laws and precedents that jurors need to apply. 3. Evaluation of Negligence: Jurors are instructed to evaluate the negligence of each party, including the plaintiff and defendant, to determine the extent and percentage of fault attributable to each. 4. Allocation of Responsibility: The instruction guides the jury on how to assign the appropriate proportion of fault to each party based on their assessment of the evidence and their understanding of the legal principles involved. 5. Impact on Damages: The instruction explains that the allocation of fault through comparative negligence will affect the damages awarded. The plaintiff's recoverable damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them. It is important to note that while "Orange California Jury Instruction — 2.2 With Comparative Negligence Defense" refers to a specific instruction, there may not be multiple types of this specific instruction. However, variations of comparative negligence instructions may exist according to the specific circumstances and legal issues involved in different cases within the Orange County Superior Court system. In summary, Orange, California Jury Instruction — 2.2 With Comparative Negligence Defense serves as a comprehensive guideline for jurors in civil trials to assess and allocate fault between parties involved in lawsuits where comparative negligence is claimed as a defense. Its purpose is to ensure a fair determination of liability and proportionate allocation of damages based on the evidence presented and applicable legal standards.