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.
Mecklenburg North Carolina Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury: In a paternity case in Mecklenburg, North Carolina, the instruction to the jury that the amount of support is not a question for them plays a crucial role in ensuring fair and just determinations. This particular instruction clarifies the jury's role and establishes that they are not responsible for determining the amount of child support to be awarded. When a paternity case reaches the trial stage, it is typically due to a dispute regarding the biological father's obligation to provide financial support for the child. Mecklenburg courts, aiming for accurate and consistent decisions, provide clear instructions to the jury about their limited sphere of influence in this matter. The instruction serves to remind the jury that their primary responsibility lies in determining the issue of paternity itself. They are tasked with evaluating the evidence presented by both parties, such as DNA tests, testimonies, and other relevant information, in order to ascertain whether the alleged father is indeed the biological parent. The instruction also emphasizes that the jury's findings on paternity will significantly impact future aspects such as custody, visitation rights, and the establishment of legal parent-child relationships. However, it explicitly states that the determination of child support falls under the jurisdiction of the judge, and it is not within the jury's purview to decide on this matter. By separating the responsibility of determining paternity and the financial aspects, the court aims to maintain objectivity and avoid potential biases. This approach allows for a fair evaluation of the evidence in question, recognizing that child support calculations involve various legal factors, financial considerations, and guidelines specific to North Carolina. It is essential to note that there may be different types of Mecklenburg North Carolina Instructions to Jury in a Paternity Case that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury. These variations could differ based on specific instructions requested by either party, the judge's discretion, or unique circumstances of the case. Some potential variations may include instructions acknowledging the role of child support guidelines in determining the appropriate amount, informing the jury about the potential involvement of a child support agency, or providing details on relevant legal statutes that shape the calculation process. In summary, Mecklenburg North Carolina Instruction to Jury in a Paternity Case that the Amount of Support is not a Question for the Jury clearly establishes the limitations of the jury's role. By focusing solely on determining the issue of paternity, this instruction ensures a more objective, fair, and streamlined process while empowering the judge with the authority to determine child support obligations.
