North Carolina Jury Instruction — 6.2 Burden of Proof for Multiple Claims or if Both Plaintiff and Defendant or Third Parties Have Burden of Proof In North Carolina, when multiple claims are presented in a legal case, or when both the plaintiff and defendant, or third parties, have the burden of proof, the jury instruction 6.2 is given to guide the jury on their decision-making process. This instruction outlines the different scenarios and standards of proof required for each party involved in the case. Under this instruction, there are several types of scenarios which may occur, each with its specific burden of proof. They include: 1. Multiple Claims: When there are multiple claims presented in a lawsuit, each claim must be considered and evaluated independently. The burden of proof for each claim rests on the party asserting it. Therefore, the plaintiff must prove each claim by a preponderance of the evidence unless otherwise stated. 2. Plaintiff and Defendant with Burden of Proof: In some instances, both the plaintiff and defendant might have claims against each other. In such cases, the burden of proof is allocated between the parties according to the nature of their claims. Typically, the plaintiff maintains the overall burden of proving their claims by a preponderance of the evidence. However, the defendant may have the burden to prove certain affirmative defenses or counterclaims. 3. Third Parties with Burden of Proof: In certain situations, third parties may join a lawsuit and assert their own claims. Similar to the plaintiff and defendant, if a third party is involved, they also have the burden of proof for their claims. The standard of proof will depend on the nature of the claim or the specific legal elements required. In all instances, the burden of proof standard is referenced. It is essential for the jury to understand that the standard is met when the evidence presented is more convincing than the opposition's evidence, even if it is by a slight margin. It is not necessary for the evidence to establish absolute certainty, but rather a clear preponderance or greater weight. North Carolina Jury Instruction 6.2 ensures that the jury comprehends the different burdens of proof applicable to a particular case's circumstances. This instruction assists the jury in making fair, informed, and impartial decisions, considering the varying demands imposed on the plaintiff, defendant, or third parties involved. By following these guidelines, the jury can fulfill its duty of determining the credibility and validity of the evidence presented, ultimately rendering a just verdict.