South Carolina Jury Instruction - Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements - Long Form

• Category: Federal - Jury Instructions - Trial Instructions
• State: Multi-State
• Control #: US-11CRT-1-2
• 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.

South Carolina Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Long Form is a set of guidelines provided to the jury by the judge at the beginning of a trial in South Carolina. These instructions are designed to inform the jury about their role and responsibilities throughout the trial process, ensuring a fair and unbiased decision-making process. Keywords: South Carolina, jury instruction, preliminary instructions, opening statements, long form. The South Carolina Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Long Form consists of various important elements to guide the jury and establish a fair trial. 1. Impartiality and Fairness: The instruction emphasizes the importance of impartiality and fairness in evaluating evidence and making a decision. Jurors are instructed to base their verdict solely on the evidence presented during the trial and to avoid any personal biases or outside influences. 2. Presumption of Innocence: The instruction clarifies the concept of "presumption of innocence." It emphasizes that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Jurors are instructed not to consider the defendant as guilty from the outset and to give them the benefit of doubt throughout the trial. 3. Burden of Proof: The instruction explains that it is the prosecution's responsibility to prove the defendant's guilt. The jury is informed that the prosecution must present evidence that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Jurors are instructed not to demand a higher standard of proof than what is required by law. 4. Opening Statements: The instruction provides guidance on the purpose and function of opening statements. Jurors are informed that opening statements are not evidence but rather an outline of each side's theory and anticipated evidence. They are instructed to listen attentively to the opening statements but not to form any conclusions based solely on them. 5. Credibility of Witnesses: The instruction discusses the importance of evaluating witness credibility. Jurors are advised to assess witness testimony based on factors such as sincerity, consistency, and demeanor. They are instructed not to automatically believe or disbelieve a witness solely based on their profession, affiliation, or personal characteristics. 6. Note-Taking and Listening: The instruction addresses the jury's ability to take notes during the trial. Jurors are informed that note-taking is allowed but not required and should not distract from active listening and observation of the proceedings. 7. Juror Conduct and Communication: The instruction outlines proper juror conduct, emphasizing the importance of not discussing the case among themselves or with others until deliberation begins. Jurors are advised to report any attempts of communication regarding the case to the court. Different types of South Carolina Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Long Form may include variations based on specific types of cases, such as criminal or civil trials. These variations provide tailored instructions relevant to the circumstances and legal aspects of each case type, ensuring that the jury has all the necessary information to render an unbiased verdict. In summary, South Carolina Jury Instruction — Preliminary Instructions Before Opening Statements — Long Form serves as an essential tool to educate and guide jurors before they hear opening statements. It equips them with the necessary knowledge to fulfill their duty in a fair and impartial manner, ensuring the integrity of the trial process.