The Wake North Carolina Jury Instruction known as "On or about Knowinggl— - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element" provides specific guidance to jurors in criminal cases where the element of willfulness or specific intent is not necessary to establish guilt. This instruction is commonly used in various types of criminal trials to ensure a fair and informed jury decision. In cases where the prosecution does not have to prove willfulness or specific intent, the jury instruction "On or about Knowinggl— - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element" becomes relevant. This instruction helps the jury understand that the defendant can still be found guilty if they performed the act knowingly, regardless of whether they had a deliberate intention or awareness of the consequences. Different types of criminal cases where this jury instruction may be applicable include but are not limited to: 1. Negligence: In cases involving negligence, where the defendant's lack of care or recklessness led to the commission of the crime, the instruction clarifies that the defendant can be found guilty if they knowingly engaged in the act, even if they did not have specific criminal intent. 2. Strict Liability Offenses: Certain offenses, such as statutory rape or drug possession, do not require the prosecution to establish intent or willfulness. The instruction is relevant in such cases, explaining to the jury that the defendant can be convicted if they knowingly committed the act, regardless of whether they intended to break the law. 3. Involuntary Acts: When a defendant claims to have committed the act involuntarily or without conscious control, the instruction provides guidance to the jury that if they find the act was indeed performed knowingly, the lack of willfulness or specific intent does not necessarily absolve the defendant of guilt. 4. Unlawful Possession or Transfer: In cases involving illegal possession or transfer of goods, such as stolen property or controlled substances, the instruction is applicable to inform the jury that if the defendant knowingly possessed or transferred the items in question, their intention or willfulness is not a determining factor in establishing guilt. Overall, the Wake North Carolina Jury Instruction "On or about Knowinggl— - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element" is crucial in ensuring a fair trial when the element of willfulness or specific intent is not required to secure a conviction. It allows the jury to focus on whether the defendant knowingly engaged in the act in question, regardless of their intentions or state of mind. By providing this instruction, the court aims to uphold justice and prevent potential misinterpretations of the law in such cases.