California Jury Instruction Cautionio— - Multiple Defendants - Multiple Counts is a critical instruction given to the jury in criminal cases where there are multiple defendants facing multiple charges. This instruction guides the jury on how to approach their deliberations when considering the guilt or innocence of each defendant on each count separately. In cases that involve multiple defendants and multiple counts, it is essential for the jury to evaluate the evidence and arguments presented by the prosecution individually for each defendant and count. This instruction serves as a reminder to the jury that they must avoid any generalization, bias, or confusion that could arise from considering the evidence collectively. The purpose of this instruction is to ensure that each defendant is evaluated independently based on the evidence and facts presented for each count against them. It emphasizes the need for the jury to analyze the evidence separately, assessing the guilt or innocence of each defendant and count based on its own merit. Furthermore, this instruction also advises the jury against using the strength or weakness of the evidence presented against one defendant or on one count to influence their decision regarding the guilt or innocence of the other defendant(s) or counts. It emphasizes that each defendant must be considered individually and that the jury should not make assumptions or transfer guilt or innocence between defendants or counts. Different types of California Jury Instruction Cautionio— - Multiple Defendants - Multiple Counts may include: 1. Cautionary Instruction for Multiple Defendants: This instruction addresses cases where two or more defendants are jointly tried for multiple charges. It advises the jury to consider each defendant's guilt or innocence separately for each count presented. 2. Cautionary Instruction for Multiple Counts: This instruction pertains to cases involving a single defendant facing multiple charges. It reminds the jury to assess the evidence and arguments individually for each count and avoid any prejudgment or generalization. 3. Cautionary Instruction for Combination of Multiple Defendants and Multiple Counts: This instruction is given when there are multiple defendants and multiple counts, guiding the jury on an unbiased evaluation for each defendant's guilt or innocence on each count separately. In conclusion, the California Jury Instruction Cautionio— - Multiple Defendants - Multiple Counts is a crucial guideline for the jury to ensure a fair and objective evaluation of each defendant's guilt or innocence on each count individually. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and transparency of the criminal justice system by preventing any bias or confusion arising from multiple defendants or counts.