What term describes a judge instructing the jury to find the accused not guilty due to insufficient evidence?

The correct term for a judge instructing the jury to find the accused not guilty due to insufficient evidence is "Directed Verdict." This legal term refers specifically to a situation where, during a trial, the judge determines that no reasonable jury could reach a decision to convict based on the evidence presented. As a result, the judge directs the jury to render a verdict of not guilty.

This action typically occurs after the prosecution has presented its case, but before the defense presents its argument, emphasizing the role of the judge in evaluating whether the evidence is adequate to proceed with a conviction. It ensures that defendants are not subjected to the uncertainty and potential harm of being found guilty without a sufficient basis for such a finding.

Other terms like "Acquittal" refer to a not guilty verdict rendered by the jury itself at the conclusion of a trial, while "Mistrial" involves a trial that is invalid due to an error or issues such as a hung jury. "Dismissal" generally relates to the termination of a case before trial, often due to lack of evidence or legal grounds. Therefore, "Directed Verdict" is the most accurate term in this specific context.