If a question of paternity of a child is raised, the parties have a right to submit that question to a jury for determination. Therefore, the issue is whether or not defendant is the father of this child. The question of the amount of support for the child or the mother is not for the jury's consideration.
In a Paternity Case, Idaho Instruction to Jury states that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury. This jury instruction is a crucial aspect in tribunals where the issue of paternity and child support is being determined by the court. Although the jury is responsible for assessing and deliberating on various issues in a case, the amount of support to be granted is not within their purview. The Idaho Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case regarding child support emphasizes the legal principle that the determination of support is solely the responsibility of the court. While the jury may consider evidence related to the child's needs, custodial arrangements, and financial circumstances of the parties involved, their role is limited to establishing the paternity of the child and other relevant facts. This instructional provision ensures that the decision regarding child support aligns with established legal guidelines and precedents, preventing inconsistencies and unpredictable outcomes. It also helps avoid potential bias or undue influence that could arise if the jury were given the authority to decide the amount of support. Although the primary Idaho Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury remains the same, different variations exist based on the specific circumstances of the case. These may include: 1. Standard Instruction: This is the most common Idaho Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case, providing a general guideline indicating that the jury should not deliberate on the amount of child support. 2. Modified Instruction: In certain situations, the court may modify the instruction to address specific issues or considerations that are unique to the case. These modifications may include providing additional information or directing the jury's attention to specific evidence. 3. Circumstantial Instruction: When circumstances of the paternity case necessitate further explanation, the instruction may be tailored to outline specific factors that the jury should focus on and those they should exclude. This ensures a clearer understanding of their role in determining support. Overall, the Idaho Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case emphasizes the significance of separating the determination of paternity from the establishment of child support. By clearly stating that the amount of support is not a question for the jury, this instruction helps to maintain consistency, fairness, and legal accuracy in the adjudication of paternity cases concerning child support in Idaho.
