Idaho Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted In the state of Idaho, during a trial, jurors may be allowed to take notes to assist them in reviewing and recalling evidence presented. Note-taking can be a helpful tool for jurors as it allows them to organize and better comprehend the information presented. This instruction provides guidance on when note-taking is permitted and how it should be incorporated into the final charge given to the jury. There are different types of Idaho Jury Instruction — Note-Taking, depending on the circumstances of the case and the judge's discretion. Here are some examples: 1. General Note-Taking Instruction: This instruction allows jurors to take notes throughout the trial, provided that they do not allow note-taking to interfere with their focus on the proceedings. It emphasizes that notes are for personal use only and should not be shared or used as evidence during jury deliberations. 2. Limited Note-Taking Instruction: In certain cases, the judge may limit the areas in which jurors can take notes. This instruction outlines the specific topics or witnesses for which note-taking is permitted. It ensures that jurors do not record irrelevant or prejudicial information that may impact their decision-making. 3. Instruction on Note-Taking Equipment: In some instances, jurors may be allowed to use electronic devices or provided with notepads by the court. This instruction informs jurors of the rules and procedures regarding the use of such equipment, ensuring fair and consistent note-taking practices among the jurors. When it comes to including note-taking in the final charge given to the jury, the instruction should cover the following points: 1. Clarification of Note-Taking: The instruction should define what constitutes note-taking and outline its purpose. It should emphasize that note-taking is a personal aid and does not replace the jurors' memory or the importance of paying attention to the trial. 2. Discretionary Nature of Note-Taking: Jurors should be informed that note-taking is not mandatory and that they have the option to choose whether to take notes. If they decide to take notes, they should be reminded that their notes are not evidence and should not be given greater weight than their memory of the trial. 3. Non-Disclosure of Notes: It is crucial to instruct jurors that their notes are private and should not be shared with anyone, including fellow jurors, during deliberations. This instruction helps maintain the impartiality and integrity of the jury's decision-making process. 4. Proper Use of Notes: The instruction should emphasize that jurors may use their notes to refresh their memory but should not solely rely on them when reaching a verdict. They should be encouraged to consider all the evidence and instructions provided by the court. In conclusion, Idaho Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted provides guidance to jurors regarding note-taking during a trial. Different types of instructions exist based on the circumstances, and the final charge should include clear instructions on the scope and proper use of note-taking. It is essential for jurors to understand that note-taking is a personal aid and should not override their responsibility to attentively evaluate the evidence presented.