[an error occurred while processing this directive] INTRODUCTION These model instructions have been prepared to help judges communicate more effectively with juries. The Manual is meant to provide judges and lawyers with models of clear, brief and simple instructions calculated to maximize juror comprehension. They are not intended to be treated as the only method of instructing properly a jury. See United States v. Ridinger, 805 F.2d 818, 821 (8th Cir. 1986). "The Model Instructions, . . . are not binding on the district courts of this circuit, but are merely helpful suggestions to assist the district courts." United States v. Norton, 846 F.2d 521, 525 (8th Cir. 1988). Every effort has been made to assure conformity with current Eighth Circuit law; however, it cannot be assumed that all of these model instructions in the form given necessarily will be appropriate under the facts of a particular case. The Manual covers issues on which instructions are most frequently given, but because each case turns on unique facts, instructions should be drafted or adapted to conform to the facts in each case. In drafting instructions, the Committee has attempted to use simple language, short sentences, and the active voice and omit unnecessary words. We have tried to use plain language because giving the jury the statutory language, or language from appellate court decisions, is often confusing. It is our position that instructions should be as brief as possible and limited to what the jury needs to know for the case. We also recommend sending a copy of the instructions as given to the jury room. Counsel are reminded of the dictates of Civil Rule 51 which provides "[n]o party may assign as error the giving or the failure to give an instruction unless that party objects thereto before the jury retires to consider its verdict, stating distinctly the matter objected to and the grounds of the objection." The Committee expresses its appreciation to all members of the subcommittee, whose diligent research and commitment to this project are essential in continuing to revise current instructions and draft new ones. Special thanks must go to Kay Bode, secretary to the Honorable William A. Knox, who has typed, retyped, corrected, edited and revised the drafts on numerous occasions. Her dedication to detail, careful screening of drafts, and comparison of various drafts have been essential in the production of these instructions.