Arizona Jury Instruction — Verdict is a legal guideline provided to the jury by the presiding judge in an Arizona trial. These instructions help the jury understand and apply the law when deliberating on a case and arriving at a verdict. The verdict instruction ensures that the jury's decision is based on legal principles and evidence presented during the trial. There are different types of Arizona Jury Instruction — Verdict, each addressing various legal aspects of the case. Some of these instructions include: 1. General Verdict Instruction: This instruction outlines the jury's duty to reach a verdict based on the evidence presented and the judge's guidance on the relevant law. It emphasizes the need to consider all elements of the offense charged, burden of proof, and to deliberate collectively. 2. Special Verdict Instruction: Special verdict instructions ask the jury to answer specific questions about the case, such as factual findings or legal elements that must be proven. The jury's responses to these questions provide a more detailed and specific verdict. 3. Guilty or Not Guilty Verdict Instruction: This instruction focuses on the basic verdict choices the jury should make — declaring the defendant guilty or not guilty. It explains that the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and that a unanimous decision is required. 4. Lesser-Included Offense Verdict Instruction: In cases where the charges include lesser-included offenses, this instruction guides the jury in considering alternate verdict options. It explains the elements and requirements for both the main charge and the lesser-included offense options. 5. Compromise Verdict Instruction: Sometimes, jurors may be deadlocked or unable to reach a unanimous decision. In such instances, this instruction allows the jury to consider a compromise verdict, if the judge allows it. It informs the jury of the importance of reaching a verdict, while still requiring that it be based on the evidence and applicable law. It is crucial for the jury to pay close attention to the judge's instructions on verdicts, as they play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the trial. These instructions guide the jury through the complex legal process, ensuring a fair and just verdict that upholds the principles of justice and the law in Arizona.