Suffolk New York Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted Note-taking during a jury trial is an essential part of the deliberation process. In Suffolk County, New York, jurors may be allowed to take notes during the trial proceedings to assist them in recalling evidence and testimony accurately. This instruction details the guidelines and circumstances under which note-taking is permitted, ensuring a fair and impartial trial. Types of Suffolk New York Jury Instruction — Note-Taking: 1. Permission granted for note-taking: This type of instruction outlines the situations in which the judge allows jurors to take notes. Usually, note-taking will be permitted when the evidence is complex or lengthy, to aid jurors in organizing their thoughts and memories, and to prevent confusion and misunderstandings during deliberations. 2. Explanation of note-taking limitations: The judge may provide instructions on the limitations of note-taking. Jurors should be informed that the notes are solely for their personal reference and not to be shared with other jurors unless required during deliberations. Moreover, it should be emphasized that the notes are aids to memory, and jurors should not heavily rely on them as a substitute for their own recollection of the evidence presented. 3. Ensuring fairness and impartiality: This instruction highlights the importance of treating all parties equally, irrespective of their approval or disapproval of note-taking. Jurors should be reminded to remain attentive to the proceedings while taking notes to avoid missing the present testimony or evidence due to a distraction caused by note-taking. 4. Confidentiality and disposal of notes: Jurors should be informed that their notes should remain confidential and should not be left unattended, as they may contain sensitive information. Once deliberations are complete, the jurors should be instructed to destroy their notes to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of the trial. 5. Additional guidance for note-taking: This instruction may provide additional guidance on note-taking techniques to help jurors accurately record important details. It may suggest using abbreviations, symbols, or drawing diagrams, as long as the notes remain comprehensible to the individual juror. Overall, Suffolk New York Jury Instruction Note-takingin— - For Inclusion in Final Charge When Note-Taking Permitted ensures that note-taking is used as a tool to aid jurors in their understanding and recollection of evidence without becoming a distraction or prejudice to any party involved. The instructions aim to maintain a fair and unbiased trial process, upholding the principle of justice.