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Note: Specimen jury instructions serve as a template that trial judges must adapt to the particular circumstances of each trial, not simply read out in whole. They are not designed to be delivered "as-is." More information about the use of specimen instructions is found in the Preface and A Note to Users, which you can find here.
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8.6 Juror's Approach to Task

(Last revised June 2012)

[1]              It is your duty to consult with one another and to try to reach a just verdict according to the law. Your foreperson will preside and assist you in the orderly discussion of the issues. You should each have the opportunity to express your own points of view without being unnecessarily repetitive. When you are discussing the issues, you should listen attentively to what your fellow jurors have to say. Approach your duties in a rational way and put your own points of view forward in a calm and reasonable manner. Avoid taking firm positions too early in your deliberations. Consider the views of your fellow jurors with an open mind before reaching your own decision.

[2]              Any verdict you reach must be unanimous [on a count or counts]. Unless you are unanimous in finding (NOA) not guilty, you cannot acquit him/her. Nor can you return a verdict of guilty unless you agree unanimously that s/he is guilty.

[3]              Each of you must make your own decision whether (NOA) is guilty or not guilty. You should reach your decision only after consideration of the evidence with your fellow jurors. Your duty is to try to reach a unanimous verdict. However, you are entitled to disagree if you cannot reach a unanimous verdict after a sincere consideration of the facts and the law and an honest discussion with your fellow jurors.