In South Dakota, jury instructions play a vital role in guiding jurors on their responsibilities and ensuring a fair trial. One crucial instruction is the "Duty to Follow Instructions," which emphasizes that jurors must adhere to the instructions given by the court throughout the trial process. This duty exists to uphold the integrity of the judicial system and ensure that all parties receive a fair and impartial trial. The Duty to Follow Instructions is a standard jury instruction in South Dakota, and it encompasses various specific instructions that jurors are obligated to follow. Some types of South Dakota Jury Instructions related to the Duty to Follow Instructions include: 1. General Instructions: These instructions serve as a foundation for jurors and provide an overview of their role in the trial. They outline the applicable laws, legal concepts, burdens of proof, and the requirement to follow court instructions. 2. Credibility Instructions: Jurors are instructed on assessing witness credibility and how to evaluate witness testimony based on credibility factors. These instructions stress the importance of evaluating a witness's testimony objectively and without bias. 3. Burden of Proof Instructions: These instructions explain the burden placed on the prosecution or plaintiff to prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt or by a preponderance of the evidence. Jurors are reminded that their verdict must be based on the evidence presented in court. 4. Elements of a Crime/Civil Claim Instructions: These instructions outline the specific elements required to establish a criminal offense or civil claim. Jurors must carefully consider whether the evidence presented sufficiently establishes each element and make their decision accordingly. 5. Deliberation Instructions: These instructions guide jurors on the proper conduct during the deliberation process. They stress the importance of open-minded discussions, respectful exchanges of viewpoints, and the requirement to reach a unanimous or majority verdict, depending on the type of trial. Jurors must fully grasp and adhere to these South Dakota Jury Instructions to ensure a fair trial and accurate outcome. Failure to follow these instructions may result in legal complications and potential mistrials. Therefore, jurors play a critical role in upholding justice by conscientiously fulfilling their duty to follow instructions provided by the court.