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.
Mississippi Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury is a legal instruction given to the jury in paternity cases in Mississippi. This instruction clarifies that the determination of the amount of child support is not within the purview of the jury. The jury's role is limited to determining the issue of paternity, while the calculation and determination of child support fall under the jurisdiction of the court or relevant state agencies. In a paternity case, the primary focus is on establishing the biological relationship between the alleged father and the child. The jury is tasked with evaluating the evidence and determining whether the alleged father is indeed the biological father of the child in question. This instruction helps guide the jury and reminds them that their responsibility is solely to decide the issue of paternity. It is important to note that Mississippi Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury may come in different forms or variations. Some potential variations or related instructions related to the amount of support in a paternity case may include: 1. Mississippi Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case: Limited Role of the Jury in Determining Paternity: This instruction reiterates that the jury's task is solely to decide on the issue of paternity and that they should not consider or involve themselves in matters related to child support. 2. Mississippi Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case: Separate Determination of Child Support: This instruction may highlight the importance of the separate process involved in determining the amount of child support. It emphasizes that this determination is beyond the scope of the jury and will be addressed by the court or relevant state agencies following the establishment of paternity. 3. Mississippi Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case: Recommendation on Child Support: This instruction informs the jury that while they are not responsible for the final determination of child support, they may be asked to provide a recommendation or input to assist the court or relevant authorities in making a fair and appropriate decision regarding child support. It is essential for the jury to understand the limitations of their role in a paternity case. By making it clear that the amount of support is not a question for the jury, the court ensures a fair and focused trial that addresses the crucial issue of paternity while leaving the determination of child support to the appropriate legal authorities.
