Rotate Legal New Mexico Jury Instructions Forms For Free

Proof beyond a reasonable doubt is proof that leaves you firmly convinced the defendant is guilty. It is not required that the government prove guilt beyond all possible doubt. A reasonable doubt is a doubt based upon reason and common sense and is not based purely on speculation.

A party must persuade you, by the evidence presented in court, that what he or she is required to prove is more likely to be true than not true. This is referred to as "the burden of proof."

In some instances, jurors who fail to appear have been brought before a judge to explain their absence. And in rare instances, a judge may direct that a warrant be issued for the juror's arrest.

When a party has the burden of proving any claim [or affirmative defense] by a preponderance of the evidence, it means you must be persuaded by the evidence that the claim [or affirmative defense] is more probably true than not true.

Requests to be permanently excused from jury service may be requested on the Voir Dire Questionnaire or in eJuror. If you requested a permanent excuse, you may call the Juror Information Line (1-800-240-6366 or 505-348-2073) two weeks prior to the start of your term to obtain the status of your request.

Will I be compensated for jury duty? The Court is authorized by New Mexico State statute to pay you $12.00 per hour. State government employees are paid by the State and therefore do not receive the hourly jury wage. Please be sure to indicate on your questionnaire if you are an employee of a State government entity.