Indiana Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted In the Indiana legal system, note-taking by jurors is generally not permitted during trial proceedings. However, there are specific instances where note-taking is allowed and this jury instruction aims to outline the guidelines and circumstances under which note-taking is permitted. This instruction is crucial for ensuring fair and accurate deliberations. The purpose of allowing note-taking during a trial is to aid jurors in retaining complex information, facilitating focused deliberations, and reducing the risk of factual errors or misunderstandings. However, it is essential for the court to impose certain limitations to prevent potential bias and maintain the integrity of the trial. The judge may give the following types of instructions related to note-taking: 1. Permission to take notes: This instruction informs jurors that they are allowed to take notes during the trial proceedings. It may include specific directions on what should and should not be included in their notes and emphasize the importance of listening attentively to all testimony. 2. Prohibition of discussions based on notes: Even if jurors are permitted to take notes, they are typically instructed not to discuss or share their notes until deliberations begin. This instruction aims to prevent premature influence and ensure that jurors consider all evidence collectively and without undue outside influence. 3. Limitations on note use during deliberations: Jurors may be informed that their notes are only meant to aid their memory and understanding during the trial and should not serve as conclusive evidence. They should rely on their collective recollection and the exhibits presented during the trial as the primary sources for deliberations. 4. Retention and destruction of notes: The court may provide instructions on the retention and destruction of juror notes. This ensures that the notes are not taken out of the courtroom, shared with unauthorized individuals, or accessed by anyone outside the jury during or after the trial. Including these jury instructions related to note-taking in the final charge is crucial to clearly define the permitted use of note-taking and to ensure a fair trial. By providing guidance on note-taking, jurors can better understand their roles and responsibilities, ultimately leading to a more accurate and objective decision-making process. Keywords: Indiana jury instruction, note-taking, final charge, permitted note-taking, juror responsibilities, trial proceedings, accurate deliberations, complex information, focused deliberations, factual errors, misunderstandings, potential bias, trial integrity, permission to take notes, note discussions prohibition, limitations during deliberations, memory aid, collective recollection, exhibits, note retention and destruction, fair trial.