Rhode Island Jury Instruction - Note-Taking - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted

• Category: Federal - Jury Instructions - Special Instructions
• State: Multi-State
• Control #: US-11CRS-5
• Format: Word; Rich Text

Description

This form contains sample jury instructions, to be used across the United States. These questions are to be used only as a model, and should be altered to more perfectly fit your own cause of action needs.

Rhode Island Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted Introduction: Rhode Island trial courts allow jurors to take notes during the trial proceedings under specific circumstances. The practice of note-taking by jurors contributes to their comprehension and overall understanding of the evidence presented. This jury instruction addresses the guidelines and procedures for note-taking during the trial and provides the necessary instructions for the inclusion of these notes in the final charge. Prerequisites for Note-Taking: Before commencing with note-taking, jurors must understand that it is an optional method for their personal aid and not a requirement. They should ensure that note-taking does not distract them from actively listening to the witnesses, attorneys, and observing the presented evidence. It is essential to emphasize that they should not rely solely on their notes but should consider their memory as well. Types of Rhode Island Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted: 1. General Guidelines: — The judge shall provide explicit permission for note-taking during the trial. — Jurors are responsible for providing their writing materials. No assistance will be provided by the court. — It is expected that jurors maintain confidentiality and do not share their notes with fellow jurors until the commencement of deliberations. — Inform jurors that their notes will be collected and destroyed at the end of the trial, ensuring the confidentiality of their content. 2. Note Organization: — Encourage jurors to use clear headings or labels for different witnesses or exhibits to easily navigate their notes during deliberations. — Advise jurors to write legibly and use proper punctuation, as their notes may be read aloud during deliberations. 3. Limits on Note-Taking: — Clarify that jurors should not become engrossed in note-taking to the extent that they miss critical moments or interactions within the courtroom. — Instruct jurors not to take notes during bench conferences or discussions held outside the presence of the jury. — Remind jurors that their notes are not official transcripts and should not be accorded greater importance than the oral testimony or other evidence. 4. Note Relevance: — Remind jurors to discern the significance of the information they note, focusing on essential facts, testimony, and exhibits. — Emphasize the need to avoid personal opinions, speculations, or irrelevant details in their notes. 5. Note Usage in Deliberation: — Reiterate that the notes are solely for personal use and serve as an aid during the deliberation process. — During deliberations, jurors may refer to their notes while discussing the evidence and their recollections. However, no notes may be taken into the deliberation room. Conclusion: Rhode Island Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted provides jurors with the guidelines and procedures for note-taking during the trial. By allowing jurors to take notes, the court enables them to enhance their comprehension and recall of the presented evidence. Emphasizing the importance of balance between note-taking and active listening, this instruction helps maintain a fair and effective trial process in Rhode Island courts.