New Mexico Jury Instruction — 12.12.1 General Instruction is a crucial legal directive provided to the jury during a trial in New Mexico. This instruction outlines the basic principles and guidelines that the jury should consider when evaluating evidence and reaching a verdict. The purpose of this instruction is to ensure that the jury comprehends their role and responsibilities as fact-finders in a trial. By providing a clear framework, this instruction helps the jury to understand the legal standards that guide their decision-making process. Keywords: 1. New Mexico: This instruction is specific to the state of New Mexico and is applicable only within its jurisdiction. The legal system and jury instructions vary from state to state. 2. Jury Instruction: Jury instructions are the guidelines given to the jury by the judge, explaining the law, legal principles, and standards that should be used in reaching a verdict. 3. General Instruction: This indicates that the instruction provides general principles that apply to a variety of cases or situations, rather than being specific to any particular legal issue or offense. Different types of New Mexico Jury Instruction — 12.12.1 General Instruction: 1. Civil Cases: This instruction may be used in civil trials, where the jury is responsible for deciding liability, damages, or other issues related to a civil dispute. 2. Criminal Cases: This instruction may also be used in criminal trials, wherein the jury determines the guilt or innocence of the defendant based on the evidence presented. In both civil and criminal cases, the jury is expected to carefully review the evidence, evaluate witness credibility, and apply the law as explained in this general instruction. The instruction may cover topics like burden of proof, presumption of innocence, reasonable doubt, credibility of witnesses, and the evaluation of exhibits or documents. It is important to note that while this general instruction provides a foundational understanding, additional specific instructions may also be provided to the jury to address the unique aspects of the case being tried. These additional instructions may supplement or modify the general instruction based on the legal issues, charges, or claims involved in the trial. Ultimately, New Mexico Jury Instruction — 12.12.1 General Instruction serves as a vital tool in ensuring a fair and just trial by guiding the jury in their evaluation of evidence and application of the law.