Arizona Jury Instruction — 1.2 With Counterclaim By Defendant is a legal instruction provided to the jury in Arizona courts to guide them in understanding the process and considerations related to counterclaims raised by a defendant in a lawsuit. It provides a detailed framework for evaluating the defendant's counterclaim and its possible impact on the overall outcome of the case. In legal proceedings, when a defendant files a counterclaim, they essentially assert their own claim against the plaintiff. This instruction aims to ensure that the jury comprehends the significance of the counterclaim and how it should be assessed in conjunction with the original claim brought forward by the plaintiff. Key points covered in Arizona Jury Instruction — 1.2 include: 1. Counterclaim Explained: This instruction clarifies the concept of a counterclaim and its role in the case. It explains that a counterclaim is a separate claim made by the defendant against the plaintiff and should be treated independently of the original claim. 2. Evaluation of the Counterclaim: The instruction instructs the jury to evaluate the counterclaim based on the same legal principles as the plaintiff's claim. The jury should carefully consider the evidence presented relating to the counterclaim and assess its validity, relevance, and potential impact on the case. 3. Burden of Proof: It outlines the burden of proof for the defendant's counterclaim. This instruction explains that the defendant has the same obligation to establish their counterclaim by a preponderance of the evidence, just as the plaintiff must for their claim. 4. Separate Determination: The jury instruction emphasizes that the counterclaim should be evaluated and decided separately from the plaintiff's claims. The verdict reached by the jury on the counterclaim must be independent and based solely on the evidence presented. Different types of Arizona Jury Instruction — 1.2 With Counterclaim By Defendant may include variations tailored to specific types of lawsuits, such as personal injury claims, contract disputes, or property-related lawsuits. These variations may address unique considerations and elements related to each specific case type. In summary, Arizona Jury Instruction — 1.2 With Counterclaim By Defendant is a crucial legal guideline provided to the jury in Arizona courts, enabling them to assess and consider counterclaims raised by the defendant. It ensures that the jury evaluates the counterclaim separately, based on the same legal principles as the plaintiff's claim, and determines its validity through a preponderance of evidence.