North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict refers to the legal instructions provided to jurors by the court during a trial in North Dakota. These instructions aim to guide the jury in reaching a fair and just verdict based on the evidence and law presented in the case. Here are some details about the North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict and its various types: 1. Purpose: The main purpose of the North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict is to provide clarity and understanding to the jurors about their role and responsibilities in determining the verdict. It ensures that the jury correctly applies the law to the facts of the case. 2. Jury Deliberation: Once the trial proceedings and closing arguments from both sides are completed, the jurors enter into the deliberation phase. During this phase, they review the evidence and consider the testimony of witnesses. The North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict assists the jurors in evaluating the credibility of witnesses, determining the weight of evidence, and applying the law. 3. Types of North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict: a. General Verdict Instruction: This instruction outlines the basic principles of law that apply to the case. It provides guidance on how the jury should consider and interpret the evidence presented at trial before reaching a verdict. b. Special Verdict Instruction: In some cases, the court may provide a special verdict instruction. This instruction asks the jury to make specific findings of fact on particular issues in the case. The jurors must answer specific questions raised by the special verdict form, which then helps the court make a final judgment. c. Modified Verdict Instruction: In certain situations, the court may modify the standard verdict instruction to suit the unique circumstances of the case. These modified instructions could include additional guidelines or considerations for the jurors when determining the verdict. 4. Factors Considered: The North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict provides guidance on several critical factors that the jury should consider, including: a. Burden of Proof: The instruction explains to the jurors that the burden of proving the guilt or innocence of the accused lies with the prosecution. It clarifies that the defendant is presumed innocent unless the prosecution can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. b. Credibility of Witnesses: The instruction guides jurors on assessing witness credibility, encouraging them to consider factors such as consistency, demeanor, bias, and corroboration when weighing their testimonies. c. Elements of the Crime: If applicable, the instruction will outline the essential elements of the crime charged and the legal requirements that must be met for a conviction to occur. d. Reasonable Doubt: The jury is instructed on the concept of reasonable doubt, emphasizing that if there is a reasonable possibility of innocence or a lack of certainty, they must acquit the defendant. e. Unanimous Verdict: North Dakota follows the unanimous verdict rule, and the instruction emphasizes that all jurors must agree on the verdict and reach a unanimous decision. In conclusion, the North Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict serves as a crucial tool for jurors to understand their duties and make informed decisions. It ensures that the jury follows the law, evaluates the evidence correctly, and arrives at a fair verdict based on an understanding of the instructions imparted by the court.