Chicago Illinois Jury Instruction — Freedom of Access to Reproductive Health Services — Intimidation or Injury of a Person refers to a set of legal rules and guidelines given to a jury in the state of Illinois when deliberating a case involving the violation of reproductive health services. This instruction is crucial in ensuring that the rights of individuals seeking reproductive healthcare are protected and that those who intend to intimidate or cause harm are held accountable. The purpose of this instruction is to define what constitutes intimidation or injury of a person in the context of reproductive health services and to provide jurors with guidelines on how to assess the evidence presented during trials. By understanding these instructions, jurors can make informed decisions on whether an accused individual has violated the freedom of access to reproductive health services by engaging in acts of intimidation or causing physical harm to another person. Key elements of this jury instruction may include: 1. Definition of Intimidation or Injury: The instruction would educate the jury on the legal definition of intimidation or injury of a person concerning reproductive health services. It would explain that intimidation can be verbal, written, or physical and could include threats of physical harm, acts of violence, or other coercive actions that impede access to reproductive health services. 2. Burden of Proof: Jurors would be informed about the burden of proof required to find the accused guilty. They would need to ascertain that the accused engaged in intentional acts directed towards intimidating or causing injury to another person seeking or providing reproductive health services. 3. Evaluation of Evidence: The instruction would provide guidance on how jurors should evaluate the evidence presented during the trial. They would consider the credibility of witnesses, such as those who observed or were subject to intimidation or injury, as well as any documented evidence, such as audio or visual recordings, photographs, medical records, or eyewitness testimonies. 4. Consideration of Motive: Jurors might be instructed to consider the motive behind the alleged acts of intimidation or injury. Understanding the defendant's intent and whether it was specifically aimed at obstructing access to reproductive health services is crucial in determining guilt or innocence. Different types or variations of this jury instruction may exist depending on the specific circumstances of the case, the legislation in force, or judicial interpretations. However, the underlying aim remains consistent across all variations: to protect and uphold the freedom of access to reproductive health services for individuals while addressing any intentional acts of intimidation or injury that impede this right.