If a question of paternity of a child is raised, the parties have a right to submit that question to a jury for determination. Therefore, the issue is whether or not defendant is the father of this child. The question of the amount of support for the child or the mother is not for the jury's consideration.
In a Paternity Case, Pennsylvania Instruction to Jury highlights crucial aspects pertaining to the determination of child support. It clearly states that the amount of support is outside the jurisdiction of the jury, thus not a question for them to deliberate upon. Instead, this determination is primarily under the purview of the court and is based on relevant laws, guidelines, evidence, and testimonies presented during the trial. Jurors must understand that their role revolves around assessing factual evidence and determining paternity rather than setting the specific monetary amount for child support. The court takes into account various factors such as the income of both parents, the child's needs and expenses, and the custodial arrangements to calculate an appropriate support amount. Pennsylvania Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case ensures that jurors are aware of their limited scope in the case. It allows them to focus their deliberation on matters such as DNA testing, witness credibility, and any relevant testimony or evidence regarding the biological relationship between the alleged father and the child. This instruction emphasizes the importance of their decision in determining paternity, which can have significant legal and emotional implications for the child and parents involved. While there may not be different types of Pennsylvania Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case specifically addressing the amount of support, it is essential to note that these instructions may vary depending on the specific circumstances of each case. The court may provide additional instructions related to other aspects of the paternity case, such as visitation rights, custody arrangements, or establishing the legal responsibilities of the alleged father. It is crucial for jurors to carefully review and follow the instructions provided by the court to ensure a fair and just resolution of the case.
