South Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict is a crucial part of the legal process in South Dakota's court system. It comprises a set of guidelines provided to the jury by the judge, detailing the specific steps they should follow when deliberating and reaching a verdict in a civil or criminal trial. These instructions play a fundamental role in ensuring a fair and just outcome. The South Dakota jury instruction on verdict provides clear and comprehensive guidance to the jury members, assisting them in understanding the legal principles and standards required to arrive at a proper decision. It outlines the rules and procedures that jurors must adhere to during deliberations to reach a unanimous verdict. Some different types of South Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdict include: 1. General Verdict Instructions: These instructions provide overall guidelines to the jury on how to evaluate evidence, assess witness credibility, and apply relevant laws in order to arrive at a verdict. 2. Specific Verdict Instructions: In cases where there are multiple counts or claims, specific verdict instructions are given. These instructions help the jurors separately consider each claim and determine guilt or liability on each count. 3. Burden of Proof Instructions: South Dakota jury instructions on verdict also include detailed explanations of the burden of proof. It clarifies that the prosecution or plaintiff has the responsibility to prove the defendant's guilt or liability beyond a reasonable doubt. 4. Credibility Instructions: Sometimes, credibility instructions are provided to guide the jury in evaluating the credibility of witnesses. These instructions may highlight factors like witness demeanor, consistency of testimonies, and potential biases or motives. 5. Jury Unanimity Instructions: In cases where a unanimous verdict is required, instructions on unanimity are given. These instructions emphasize that all jurors must agree on the verdict, and if unanimity cannot be reached, it may result in a hung jury. 6. Damages Instructions: For trials involving the determination of damages, specific instructions may be given to help the jury calculate and award the appropriate compensation to the successful party. These instructions outline the different types of damages and any limitations or considerations to be taken into account. It is important to note that South Dakota Jury Instruction — Verdicts are prepared and approved by the state's Judicial Committee on Model Jury Instructions. These instructions are regularly updated to align with changes in South Dakota laws and court decisions. Jurors are expected to carefully consider the given instructions and base their verdict solely on the evidence and instructions provided during the trial.