Annual Review Of Developments In Instructions-2007

摘要

Although this year's cases contain many discrete lessons, all reinforce two broad themes. First, military judges must be careful when drafting instructions. Instructions ensure accurate fact-finding and serve as a procedural safeguard against unfairness. Second, military judges should follow the Benchbook. Deviating from the pattern instructions may be necessary from time to time because of legal developments or an unanticipated situation, but it should only be done with great care and after thoughtful deliberation.