New Hampshire Jury Instruction: Duty to Follow Instructions In the state of New Hampshire, the jury plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system. To ensure fair and impartial trials, the court provides specific instructions to the jury about their duties and responsibilities. Among these instructions, one important aspect is the duty to follow instructions. The New Hampshire Jury Instruction — Duty to Follow Instructions serves as a guideline for jurors to understand and adhere to their obligation to follow the court's instructions throughout the trial process. This instruction emphasizes the importance of impartiality, the need to weigh the evidence presented, and the requirement to reach a fair and just verdict based solely on the facts and the law. By following these instructions, jurors contribute to maintaining the integrity of the judicial system and guaranteeing justice for all parties involved. The New Hampshire Jury Instruction — Duty to Follow Instructions helps jurors remain objective and focused during the trial, preventing any biases or preconceived notions from influencing their decisions. Different types of New Hampshire Jury Instruction — Duty to Follow Instructions may include: 1. Instruction on Impartiality: This instruction emphasizes the need for jurors to remain neutral, unbiased, and free from any influences that may affect their judgment. It explains that jurors must base their decisions solely on the evidence presented in court, without any personal biases or prejudices. 2. Instruction on Weighing and Evaluating Evidence: This instruction guides jurors on how to analyze and evaluate the evidence presented during the trial. It informs jurors about the importance of considering the credibility and reliability of the witnesses, the quality of the evidence, and how to make reasonable inferences based on the facts presented. 3. Instruction on Applying the Law: This instruction outlines the jurors' responsibility to understand and apply the applicable laws as instructed by the court. It educates jurors on their duty to interpret the law objectively, without any personal beliefs or opinions influencing their decisions. 4. Instruction on Deliberations: This instruction provides guidance on the proper conduct of jury deliberations. It emphasizes the importance of respectful communication, attentive listening to other jurors' viewpoints, and the necessity to reach a unanimous decision whenever possible. 5. Instruction on Relevance of Jury Instructions: This instruction clarifies the significance of the jury instructions provided by the court. It emphasizes that jurors must follow these instructions, as they are essential for a fair and just trial. It also advises jurors to seek clarification from the court if any part of the instructions is unclear. The New Hampshire Jury Instruction — Duty to Follow Instructions upholds the principle of fair and impartial trials by instructing jurors on their duties and obligations. The instructions ensure that the jury's deliberations are based on the law, evidence, and remain free from any external influences. By following these instructions, jurors contribute to the administration of justice and safeguard the fundamental principles of the legal system.