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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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6.5 Concluding Remarks

(Last revised January 2018)

[1]              It is your duty to watch and listen to all of the proceedings, including the addresses, the evidence and my instructions. You must listen to and observe these trial proceedings without prejudice, bias or sympathy.

[2]              At the end of the sittings for each day, you are free to go. You do not have to stay together.

[3]              When all of the evidence has been presented, counsel have addressed you, and I have told you about the legal principles that apply to your discussions, you will go to the jury room together to decide the case. At that point you will be sequestered, which means that you must stay together until you have reached your verdict. Meals and overnight accommodation, if required, will be arranged for you.

[4]              While you are sequestered, you will not be permitted to use any communication devices, including cell phones. The sheriffs will collect your devices and return them to you at the end of the trial. If you need to communicate with your family, or if they need to communicate with you, the sheriffs will assist you in exchanging messages.