Title: Standard Jury Instruction in Criminal Cases
Citation: N/A
Docket Number: SC01-750
State: Florida
Issuer: Florida Supreme Court
Date: June 20, 2002

Supreme 
Court 
of 
Florida
  
____________
No. SC01-750
____________
STANDARD JURY INSTRUCTIONS IN CRIMINAL CASES --
SUBMISSION 2001-1.
[May 9, 2002]
CORRECTED OPINION
PER CURIAM.
The Supreme Court Committee on Standard Jury Instructions in Criminal
Cases petitions this Court to amend the Standard Jury Instructions in Criminal
Cases.  We have jurisdiction.  See art. V, § 2(a), Fla. Const.  The committee
published its proposed amendments for comment in The Florida Bar News, and a
number of comments were received.  The committee made changes to various
proposals and submitted the instant petition to this Court for consideration.  This
Court republished the committee's amended proposals, and three additional
comments were received.
The committee proposes revisions to the Florida Grand Jury Handbook, the
Florida Grand Jury Instructions, and the instructions on aggravated child abuse and
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child abuse.  The committee further proposes new instructions governing the crimes
of neglect of a child with great harm and neglect of a child without great harm and a
new instruction governing the use of transcripts.   
Having considered the committee's petition and the comments filed, we
hereby authorize the publication and use of the instructions at issue as submitted by
the committee with the following revisions.
First, we adopt the suggestion of Assistant Public Defender Paula S. Saunders
and strike the definition of "mental injury" from the jury instructions for 
aggravated child abuse, child abuse, neglect of a child with great harm, and neglect
of a child without great harm.  We agree with Saunders that providing this definition
in the aforementioned instructions may lead to confusion because both of the terms
"mental injury" and "physical injury" are used in the instructions, but there is no
definition given for "physical injury."
Second, we adopt the suggestion of attorney Scott W. Sakin and strike the
definition of "torture" from the instruction on aggravated child abuse.  In 1996, the
legislature deleted the definition of torture from the section of the Florida Statutes
that provides definitions for chapter 827 relating to abuse of children.  See § 827.01,
Fla. Stat. (2001); ch. 96-322, § 7, at 1770, Laws of Fla.
Finally, we adopt the suggestion of State Attorney Norman Wolfinger and
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add the word "special" to Grand Jury Instruction 6.1 so that it provides: "If the state
attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) is disqualified from advising and participating
in the duties of the grand jury, the court will appoint a special state attorney (or a
special statewide prosecutor)."  (Emphasis added.)  We agree with Wolfinger that
adding the word "special" clarifies the instruction. 
We decline to adopt the comments filed by State Attorney John Tanner and
attorney Benedict P. Kuehne at this time; however, we will refer the matters raised
in these comments to the committee for consideration.  
By authorizing publication, we express no opinion on the correctness of the
jury instructions, and remind all interested parties that this authorization forecloses
neither requesting additional or alternative instructions nor contesting the legal
correctness of these instructions. We further caution that the notes and comments
associated with the instructions reflect only the opinion of the committee and are not
necessarily indicative of the views of this Court as to their correctness or
applicability.  Our thanks to the committee and all the individuals who filed
comments with this Court. The jury instructions as set forth in the appendix shall be
effective when this opinion becomes final.  New language is indicated by
underlining, and deletions are indicated by struck-through type.
It is so ordered.
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WELLS, C.J., and SHAW, HARDING, ANSTEAD, PARIENTE, LEWIS, and
QUINCE, JJ., concur.
NOT FINAL UNTIL TIME EXPIRES TO FILE REHEARING MOTION, AND IF
FILED, DETERMINED.
Original Proceeding - Standard Jury Instructions in Criminal Cases
Philip J. Padovano, Chair, Supreme Court Committee on Standard Jury Instructions
in Criminal Cases, Tallahassee, Florida,
for Petitioner
Raul A. Zambrano, Assistant State Attorney, DeLand, Florida, on behalf of  of John
Tanner, State Attorney for the Seventh Judicial Circuit, Volusia County, Florida
Comment of William D. Matthewman, Boca Raton, Florida
Comment of Scott W. Sakin, Miami, Florida
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APPENDIX
Proposal 1: Revisions of the Florida Grand Jury Handbook
FLORIDA GRAND JURY HANDBOOK
INTRODUCTION
“Jury service is one of the highest duties of citizenship, for by it the
citizen participates in the administration of justice . . . .”
Harlan Fisk Stone
Chief Justice
United States Supreme Court
You are one of those citizens who have been selected to perform this “highest
duty of citizenship.”
In time of peace there is no higher duty a citizen can perform than that of jury
service; however, few citizens when called to serve have any understanding of the
principles that control the actions of the grand juror.
This handbook is intended only to give the juror a better understanding of the
general nature of his or her functions, together with some suggestions as how best to
carry them out. The court itself will be the final authority in its instructions to the
grand jury. This handbook is not intended in any manner whatever as a substitute for
the instructions given by the presiding judge.
WHAT IS A GRAND JURY
A grand jury is an investigative, reporting and accusing agency of the circuit
court (or of the Florida Supreme Court in the case of the statewide grand jury).  It
consists of citizens of a specified number who have been summoned and empaneled
by a judge of the circuit court (or by a judge appointed by the Florida Supreme
Court, in the case of the statewide grand jury).  The grand jury is an agency and an
arm of the circuit court (or the Florida Supreme Court in the case of the statewide
grand jury) and is uniquely independent.  
The grand jury is answerable to no person or agency of government except
the court that empanels it and, even then, only to the extent that it may exceed its
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authority and privileges.
TERM OF THE GRAND JURY
At least two terms of court are held each year and once the grand jury is
empaneled, it will serve for the balance of the term of court.  In exceptional cases,
its term may be extended.  (The statewide grand jury’s term is for a period of 12
months, but may be extended for up to 18 months.)  The grand jury will not be in
constant session but will be called in from time to time as necessary.  
WHO ARE GRAND JURORS
Grand jurors are qualified electors of the county who have resided in Florida
for at least one year and in the county for at least six months before they are called.
United States citizens and Florida residents who are at least 18 years of age and
who possess a driver’s license or identification card issued by the Department of
Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, or who execute an affidavit indicating a desire
to serve as a juror.   
All jurors are selected at random and their names are taken from the voter
registration list lists prepared by the clerk of the circuit court.
The process of selecting jurors is done in most counties by the county
commissioners and in some counties by a specially constituted jury commission. 
The process of selecting the statewide grand jury is handled by the State Court
Administrator for the Florida Supreme Court. 
When making up the jury list, the officers compiling it are required to select
only citizens they believe to be law-abiding, and of proven integrity, good character,
sound judgment and intelligence, and who are neither physically nor mentally infirm. 
DISQUALIFICATION TO SERVE AS A
GRAND OR PETIT JUROR
Any person who has been convicted of a felony or bribery, perjury, or larceny
is disqualified to sit as a juror, unless his or her civil rights have been restored.
A person under prosecution for any crime is disqualified.
Most government officials are disqualified to serve on a jury.
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FREQUENTLY USED WORDS AND PHRASES
Throughout this handbook and during your term as a grand juror certain terms
will occur frequently. Some of these are:
Capital Crime. A capital crime is any crime for which the maximum
punishment is death.
Circuit Court. The State of Florida is divided into 20 judicial “circuits.” Each
circuit covers one or more counties. The circuit court is the highest trial court in the
circuit.
Defendant. A “defendant” is a person who has been accused of a crime and is
defending himself or herself in a court against the criminal charge. The words
“defendant” and “accused” are used interchangeably.
Felony. A “felony” is any crime which is punishable by imprisonment in a
state penitentiary for a term in excess of one year. A “misdemeanor” is any crime
which is punishable by imprisonment in a county correctional facility for a term of
not more than one year.
Indictment; True Bill. A “true bill” is a charge brought by the grand jury
accusing a person of a crime. A true bill, when it is filed in court, then becomes an
“indictment.”
Judge. The judge presiding over the trial is often called or referred to as “the
court.”
No True Bill. A “no true bill” is a finding by the grand jury that on a given
charge no indictment should be filed.
Presentment. A “presentment” is a presentation to the court of a grand jury's
report of its actions and recommendations.
State Attorney. Each circuit in the State of Florida has a “state attorney” who,
together with assistants, prosecutes all crimes and offenses in the circuit and county
courts in the circuit. Some other states refer to this officer as a “district attorney” or
“prosecuting attorney.”
Statewide Prosecutor.  The statewide prosecutor is appointed by the Attorney
General of the State of Florida to investigate and prosecute certain multi-circuit
criminal activity.  
GRAND JURY AND PETIT JURY DISTINGUISHED
There are two kinds of juries: grand juries and petit juries.  
The grand jury consists of up to 23 (or 18 for statewide grand jury) members. 
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A petit jury, depending upon the type of trial, consists of either 6 or 12 members.  
The grand jury and the petit jury have entirely different purposes and
functions. A petit jury actually tries a case and renders a verdict of guilty or not
guilty after hearing both sides. A grand jury does not try a case on the issue of guilt
or innocence. The grand jury rarely hears both sides. Its function is simply to hear
witnesses as to a charge of crime, by the State, and to determine whether the person,
or persons, so charged should be brought to trial. The grand jury has been called
both a sword and shield of justice — a sword because it is a terror to criminals, a
shield because it is protection of the innocent against unjust prosecution.
The tremendous power of the grand jury obviously creates grave and solemn
responsibilities to see that these powers are not perverted or abused. A grand jury,
being possessed with these tremendous powers and unless motivated by the highest
sense of justice, might find indictments not warranted by the evidence and thus
become a source of oppression to the citizenry.
Conversely, a misguided grand jury might dismiss charges against those who
should be prosecuted. The importance of the grand jury's power is emphasized by
the fact that it is one of the most independent bodies known to the law.
HISTORY OF THE GRAND JURY
The grand jury originated more than seven centuries ago in England. It was
recognized in the Magna Charta granted by King John of England upon the demand
of the people in 1215 A.D. Its present form evolved in the period 1327 to 1377. Its
origins can be traced back even further. As early as 997 A.D. a Danish king,
“Ethelred the Unready,” charged an investigative body of his reign that it should go
about its duty by accusing no innocent person, and sheltering no guilty one.
This high principle is echoed in the oath that you took as a grand juror:  
“You, as grand jurors for _______________ County (or the statewide grand
jury) do solemnly swear (or affirm) that you will diligently inquire into all matters
put in your charge and you will make true presentments of your findings; unless
ordered by a court, you will not disclose the nature or substance of the deliberations
of the grand jury, the nature or substance of any testimony or other  evidence, the
vote of the grand jury, or the statements of the state attorney (or the statewide
prosecutor); you shall not make a presentment against a person because of envy,
hatred, or malice, and you shall not fail to make a presentment against a person
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because of love, fear, or reward.  So help you God.”  
The early colonists brought the grand jury system to this country from
England. It has been with us ever since. It is recognized in the Constitution of the
United States and in the Constitution of Florida.
(The Statewide Grand Jury was created in 1973 to “strengthen the grand jury
system and enhance the ability of the State to detect and eliminate organized
criminal activity by improving the evidence gathering process in matters which
transpire or have significance in more than one county.”  Section 905.32, Florida
Statutes.)
 
THE GRAND JURY AS AN ACCUSING AND INVESTIGATIVE BODY
Our constitution provides that no person shall be brought to trial for a capital
crime except upon indictment of a grand jury.  This means that no one may be
prosecuted for a capital crime except by a vote of the grand jury.  Except for capital
crimes, the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) may initiate all other criminal
charges.  The grand jury of course may indict for any crime that the evidence
justifies.  
The wisdom of leaving to the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) the
bringing of charges as to crimes less than capital crimes and traffic violations is
readily apparent.  If the grand jury was required to initiate the prosecution of less
serious crimes through indictment, the grand jury would be so overwhelmed with
complaints that it could not perform its more important duties.
Charges of crime may be brought to your attention in several ways: by the
court; by the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor); from personal knowledge
brought to your body by any member of the grand jury; and, lastly, by private
citizens who have a right to be heard by a grand jury in formal session and with the
grand jury’s consent.  The bulk of the grand jury’s work probably will be concerned
with cases brought to its attention by the state attorney (or the statewide
prosecutor).  In most instances a person being considered for indictment by the
grand jury will have been held preliminarily on a charge brought before a judge
sitting as a committing magistrate, who bound that person over for action by the
grand jury.  The accused will be either in custody or on bail.  Your action, therefore,
should be reasonably prompt in either voting an indictment as to the charge or
returning a “no true bill.”  
The grand jury should consult with the state attorney (or the statewide
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prosecutor) or an assistant state attorney (or an assistant statewide prosecutor) in
advance of undertaking a formal investigation on the grand jury’s own initiative.  
A grand juror may not be subject to partisan secret influences.  Consequently,
no one has the right to approach a juror in order to persuade that juror that an
indictment should or should not be found.  Any individual who wishes to be heard
by the grand jury should be referred to the state attorney (or the statewide
prosecutor) or to the foreperson of the grand jury, and thereafter be heard only in
formal session of the grand jury.  
It is imperative that you always keep in mind that as a grand juror you are a
public official, with the duty of protecting the public by enforcing the law of the
land. Therefore, even though you may think a certain law to be unduly harsh or
illogical, that should not influence your judgment in carrying out your duties as a
grand juror. A citizen has the right to endeavor to change the law. A grand juror,
being a public official, has a duty to enforce the law as it exists despite any personal
inclinations to the contrary.
The grand jury in addition to the duty of formally indicting those charged with
crime has the further important duty of making investigations on its own initiative,
which it will report as a “presentment.” This duty permits investigation of how
public officials are conducting their offices and discharging their public trusts. The
grand jury may investigate as to whether public institutions are being properly
administered and conducted. It has the power to inspect those institutions and, if
necessary, may call before the grand jury those in charge of the operations of public
institutions as well as any other person who has information and can testify
concerning them. If the grand jury finds that an unlawful, improper or corrupt
condition exists, it may recommend a remedy.
The grand jury may not act arbitrarily. Investigations shall not be based upon
street rumor, gossip or whim, and the investigations cannot be the subject of a grand
jury presentment. The grand jury can only investigate those matters that are within
its jurisdiction, geographic and otherwise. The limitations of the grand jury's
jurisdiction have been set forth for you by the court in its instructions.
It is important to keep in mind that no individual should be unjustly criticized
or held up to scorn or public resentment, particularly when it is remembered that the
individuals who may be criticized had no opportunity to defend themselves or give
reply to the charges. A grand juror must keep in mind that the grand jury is the
ultimate instrument of justice and should never be subverted to become the vehicle
for harassment or oppression.
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OFFICERS OF THE GRAND JURY
The judge who presided over the empaneling of the grand jury in the “charge
to the grand jury” advised you formally and in great detail as to how the grand jury
is organized and functions.  In summary, the grand jury consists of 18 or, in some
places, of 23 members.  Its officers are the foreperson, who will preside over the
grand jury deliberations to make sure they are carried on in an orderly fashion
including overseeing the examination of the witnesses; a vice-foreperson, who will
preside in the absence of the foreperson or if for any reason the foreperson is not
able to carry out his or her duty; and the clerk, who will keep a record of the
proceedings had before the grand jury and formally make return of these records to
the clerk of the circuit court (or clerk of the Supreme Court in the case of the
statewide grand jury) for safekeeping.  The foreperson and vice-foreperson are
appointed by the judge and the clerk is appointed by the foreperson (or in the case
of the statewide grand jury, may be selected by the group).  The state attorney (or
the statewide prosecutor) or assistant state attorneys (or assistant statewide
prosecutors) will act as the legal advisers to the grand jury.  If necessary Tthe grand
jury also will be provided an official court reporter or recorder to record the
proceedings had testimony before the grand jury.  
If the grand jury has its own budget, a treasurer of the grand jury may also be
appointed to keep account of all receipts and disbursements made to or from the
grand jury budget.
If any question should arise concerning how the grand jury shall operate or
function, you may apply to the judge, who will advise you.
PROCEDURES
Not less than 18 members of a 23-member grand jury, and 15 of an 18-
member grand jury must always be present to constitute a quorum. If less than a
quorum exists, the proceedings of the grand jury must be halted until a quorum is
present. Grand jurors, who, because of an emergency, find that they will be unable
to attend a grand jury session should advise the grand jury clerk or foreperson
immediately.
An affirmative vote of at least 12 members of the grand jury is necessary to
the return of a true bill or indictment. Therefore, even though a quorum is present it
still requires at least 12 votes of individual members, rather than a mere majority of
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those present, in order to return a true bill.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE GRAND JURY
Most of the work of the grand jury involves hearing witnesses and
determining the sufficiency of evidence on the issue of whether that evidence,
without regard to possible defenses, justifies indictment.  Generally, the state
attorney (or statewide prosecutor) or assistant state attorneys (or assistant statewide
prosecutors) will present and explain the charge to the grand jury and advise as to
the witnesses who will be presented, either voluntarily or upon being summoned on
the request of the state attorney (or statewide prosecutor) or the grand jury itself. 
The grand jury may call any witness it deems appropriate and necessary.  
The witnesses will be called one by one and placed under oath to tell the
truth.  Generally, the state attorney (or statewide prosecutor) will administer the
oath.  This oath should be administered in a solemn, dignified and deliberate manner
in order to impress upon the witness the seriousness of the situation and the duty to
be truthful.  The state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) or assistant state
attorneys (or assistant statewide prosecutor) ordinarily will undertake to question
the witnesses first.  If the foreperson, or any member of the grand jury desires to do
so, they then also may propound questions.  It is suggested, however, that any
question first be submitted to the state attorney (or statewide prosecutor), who will
determine whether the question is appropriate.  
Grand jurors should keep in mind that they are acting in a judicial capacity
and sitting in judgment of evidence before them. For this reason all questioning
should be done in a calm, impartial and objective manner without indicating the
personal feelings of the person asking the questions.
Occasionally, a witness when brought before the grand jury refuses to testify
or answer questions. If this occurs, both the question the witness has refused to
answer and the fact of refusal should be carefully recorded. The matter then should
be brought before the court, with a complete copy of the record, in order to obtain
from the court a ruling on whether the witness may be compelled to answer the
question. In most instances a refusal to answer is based upon the claim of the
witness that the answer will violate the constitutional right against self-
incrimination. If the answer does tend to incriminate the witness, the witness cannot
be made to answer. If it does not, however, the witness will be ordered to answer
under penalty of contempt.
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An accused person cannot be compelled to testify before a grand jury
although one under investigation by the grand jury may appear voluntarily to testify. 
In that event, however, the grand jury should proceed with great caution and should
not permit one under investigation to testify until after first conferring with the state
attorney (or the statewide prosecutor).  If an accused, or any person under
investigation, is permitted to testify before the grand jury without waiving the
constitutional right against self-incrimination, any indictment or presentment would
be null and void.
It is clear that the matter of forcing a witness to testify or of giving the
accused an opportunity to testify raises complicated legal questions.  The advice of
the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) and, when necessary, a ruling from
the court, therefore, always should be sought when these questions arise.  
Finally, it should be kept in mind that neither an accused nor an ordinary
witness is permitted to have a lawyer in the grand jury room.  To permit a lawyer to
appear with the client when testifying before the grand jury would be unlawful.  A
witness is permitted to be represented before the grand jury by one attorney.  The
attorney may be present for the purpose of advising and consulting with the witness,
but may not address the grand jurors, raise objections, or make arguments.  (This
provision does not apply to proceedings of the Statewide Grand Jury.) 
DETERMINATION WHETHER TO RETURN AN INDICTMENT OR A NO 
TRUE BILL
When the grand jury has heard all necessary or available witnesses and is
prepared to deliberate on  the issue whether to indict or return a no true bill, the
foreperson must compel all persons to leave the grand jury room except the
members of the grand jury themselves.  No other person is permitted in the grand
jury room during its deliberations, even including the state attorney (or the statewide
prosecutor), court reporter and interpreter.  
When the question of whether to indict or return a no true bill is presented, all
grand jurors have the right to comment on the evidence and to express their views of
the matter. Only when all members of the grand jury have expressed themselves and
each has been given the opportunity to be heard should a vote be taken. A vote to
return an indictment can be found only upon the affirmative vote of 12 members of
the grand jury.
Similar proceedings should be taken when the matter to be discussed is not a
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criminal charge or indictment but a presentment, as noted above.
If all persons, except the grand jurors, are not removed from the grand jury
room during its deliberations, any indictment or presentment would be nullified.
THE STATE ATTORNEY (OR THE STATEWIDE PROSECUTOR)
AS LEGAL ADVISOR TO THE GRAND JURY
The court in its charge to the grand jury outlined the part that the state
attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) will play in assisting the grand jury.  The state
attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) will assume responsibility for presenting
witnesses and bringing testimony before the grand jury.  The state attorney (or the
statewide prosecutor) is a public official and is entitled to the confidence and
cooperation of the grand jury. 
It occurs sometimes, however, that even the best of advisors may be in error. 
If a difference of opinion arises between the state attorney (or the statewide
prosecutor) and the grand jury and it cannot be resolved amicably, the matter should
be brought before the presiding judge for a ruling.  
SECRECY OF GRAND JURY PROCEEDINGS
Secrecy as to all grand jury proceedings is of the utmost importance. This
includes not only the actions upon an indictment or a presentment but even the fact
that any such matter was considered, or any witness was called. It is only in this
manner that the grand jurors themselves can be protected from pressure by persons
who may be involved by the action of the grand jury. Secrecy also is the only
protection that a witness may have before a grand jury, which will protect the
witness from being tampered with or intimidated before testifying at the trial.
Further, secrecy may prevent one under indictment, or subject to indictment, from
escaping while the issue of indictment is under consideration. It also should be
remembered that secrecy may encourage witnesses to give the grand jury frankly
and candidly any knowledge they may have concerning crime or corruption. Lastly,
and of equal importance to all other consideration of secrecy, is the fact that an
innocent person who has been subjected to a charge but not indicted should be
protected from the embarrassment and disgrace attendant upon the making of a
charge before a grand jury.
The pledge of secrecy is paramount. It also is permanent.
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A grand juror will not communicate to family, friends, associates or anyone
concerning any matter that takes place in the grand jury room. The only time this
veil of secrecy may be lifted is by order of the court after a full hearing, and then
only in exceptional cases.
PROTECTION AND IMMUNITY OF GRAND JURORS  
Grand jurors are fully protected from actions against them by being an
independent body answerable to no one except the court that empanels it. No
inquiry may be made to learn what grand jurors said or how they voted. The law
gives the grand juror complete immunity for official acts. There is only one
exception: if a grand juror testifies as a witness for the grand jury as to a
commission of a crime and that testimony is perjured, the juror could be prosecuted
for that perjury. This complete protection for the official acts obviously is vital to
the operation of the grand jury and points up that grand jurors should be citizens of
unquestionable integrity and high character.
ON BEING A GRAND JUROR — SOME PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS  
Attend all sessions of the grand jury. Your attendance should be regular and
on time. If you are unable to attend a session and wish to be excused, obtain
permission from the foreperson. The unexpected lack of a quorum could cause a
great loss of money, as well as the time of the jurors, the authorities and the
witnesses. The public is depending on you.
Pay close attention to testimony given and the evidence presented.
Be courteous to the witnesses and your fellow jurors.
Fix the time and place of your meetings, keeping in mind the convenience of
the public and the witnesses as well as yourselves and the state attorney (and the
statewide prosecutor). 
Do not interrupt until the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) has
finished questioning the witness.  In all probability the evidence you are interested in
will be brought out by those questions.  
Listen to the opinions of your fellow jurors, but maintain your own
independent viewpoint.
Be independent, but not obstinate.
Be absolutely fair. You are acting as a judge. You therefore must be guided
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by your own good conscience and sense of justice.
All jurors have an equal voice in determining whether an indictment shall be
returned. Each of you has a right to state your reasons.
Do not remain silent when the case is under discussion and then, after a
decision has been made, criticize the acts of the grand jury.
A reckless grand jury is as bad as a weak grand jury.
Do not attempt to investigate matters beyond the province of the grand jury,
or merely because someone suggested an investigation.
Above all, refrain from discussing grand jury matters with fellow jurors
outside of the grand jury room.
Each juror has a duty and responsibility equal to yours. Each juror is entitled
to be satisfied with the evidence. If others wish to pursue a matter further, no effort
should be made to dismiss the witness or shut off proper discussion.
CONCLUSION
Your membership on the grand jury is an honor. You are one of the few
citizens who have been called upon to perform this service. Your service as a grand
juror will be a source of pride and satisfaction to you if you devote to it the
responsible participation and dedicated service that the grand jury is entitled to
expect from its members.
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Proposal 2: Revisions of the Florida Grand Jury Instructions
FLORIDA
GRAND JURY INSTRUCTIONS
The Supreme Court Committee
on Standard Jury Instructions
In Criminal Cases
(Reviewed and approved by
Grand Jury Association of Florida)
FLORIDA GRAND JURY INSTRUCTIONS
1
PRELIMINARY STATEMENTS
1.1
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, the oath you have just taken now constitutes
you the grand jury for ___________ (county) (or the statewide grand jury) for this
term of court.  Your term begins today and will continue through (date).  You will
not be expected to remain in continuous session, but you will be called from time to
time when circumstances require your consideration.  Your immediate duty will be
to consider those matters to be presented to you at this time.  
1.2
It is my duty to instruct you concerning your duties and it is your duty to
follow these instructions as you understand them.
1.3
Your duties are those of an investigative body. You are authorized to inquire
into and investigate both criminal and civil matters. You should be fully aware at all
times of the enormous power vested in the grand jury. This power carries with it the
profound responsibility to see that it is not abused. You are responsible only to the
court.
1.4
No duty of citizenship is more important than service as a grand juror, for no
other group of citizens has the opportunity to make a more valuable contribution to
the administration of justice.
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1.5
The grand jury system is of ancient vintage. History has proved its
effectiveness in regulating the affairs of free people. The seven hundred years of its
existence in its present form justifies it as a guardian of all that is comprehended in
the police power of the state.
1.6
You always should keep in mind that the grand jury is both a sword and a
shield . . . a sword because the power of the grand jury has a chilling and deterrent
effect on those who violate the law . . . it is a shield because of its power and duty
to protect the innocent against persecution.
1.7
Your service as a grand juror will be a satisfying and rewarding experience
for by it you will participate directly in the administration of justice. You will have
the opportunity, if circumstances justify it, to inquire into, examine and investigate
not only violations of the criminal law but all phases of the civil administration of
government. You should bring to your task your most wholehearted and conscien-
tious efforts. The grand jury is one of the keystones of democracy. Grand jurors
upon being called into service are expected to exercise their honest convictions and
best judgment in the administration of justice. The grand jury operates freely,
unhampered and subject only to the restraint fixed by the limitations and require-
ments of the law itself.
1.8
The importance of your work as a grand juror of this county (or the statewide
grand jury) and your grave responsibility must be realized by each of you and be
kept in mind during all of your investigations and deliberations.  
2
INSTRUCTIONS ON CRIMINAL MATTERS
2.1
The function of the grand jury in criminal matters is to investigate and
determine whether there is sufficient evidence to justify an indictment against an
accused.
2.2
It is not your province to try the case and determine the guilt or innocence of
the accused, and you are not expected to do this.
2.3
The guilt or innocence of a person indicted by the grand jury is determined by
a trial jury that will be specially impanelled to try the case. The trial jury hears all
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the evidence, on both sides, in an adversary proceeding under the supervision of a
trial judge. Upon the trial based upon the indictment the accused is entitled to be
present and have the assistance of counsel and a verdict is rendered only after the
accused has had an opportunity to see and hear the witnesses, examine the evidence
and have the case argued by counsel. The trial jury will be charged by the trial judge
on the law applicable to the case. These safeguards are designed to protect and
preserve the constitutional rights of an accused.
2.4
Your duty is only to ascertain whether there is “probable cause” a crime has
been committed by the person so accused. If the evidence is sufficient to constitute
“probable cause,” then it is your duty to find what is known as a “true bill.” If the
grand jury does find a “true bill” and it is properly returned in open court, it then
becomes the “indictment” on which the accused will be put to trial.
2.5
“Probable cause,” which must be shown to your satisfaction before you will
be justified in returning a “true bill,” is defined as a reasonable ground of suspicion,
supported by circumstances sufficiently strong in themselves to warrant a cautious
person in the belief that a particular person is guilty of a particular crime.
2.6
You should vote to return a “true bill” if you find “probable cause” that a
crime has been committed and that the accused probably did commit that crime. 
There may be instances when it seems probable that a crime has been committed
and yet you feel that the accused is not guilty or you have a strong doubt in your
mind as to guilt.  In those cases you should vote not to return a “true bill,” for in
those cases you should keep in mind that you have heard only one side of the case
and have no knowledge of the defendant’s side of the case.  Certainly, if there is
considerable doubt in your minds of the accused, then it cannot be expected that the
State could convince a trial jury of a defendant’s guilt beyond every reasonable
doubt, when the State’s case will be vigorously attacked and the trial jury also will
hear the defendant’s story.  A state attorney (or a statewide prosecutor) will advise
and counsel the grand jury as its legal advisor and while you do not have to follow
that advice you should give it strong consideration.  The state attorney (or the
statewide prosecutor) also will be in a position to advise whether other evidence
may be available at the time of trial if the accused is indicted.  
2.7
When so justified it is your solemn duty to cause the accused person to be
indicted; likewise, when an indictment is not justified, it is equally your solemn duty
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to clear the accused person by returning a “no true bill.”  
2.8
Our state constitution provides that no person may be tried for a capital crime
except on presentment and indictment by a grand jury.  A capital crime is one that is
punishable by death.  Although you have the authority to do so, the court recom-
mends that a grand jury not investigate criminal matters other than capital cases
unless they are of such public importance that they justify the additional time and
expense of investigation by the grand jury.  Again, you should give weight to the
recommendations and advice of the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) in
the matters you are investigating; however, the final decision rests with you.  You
should keep in mind, however, that the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor)
in most cases has throughly investigated the case and will have the responsibility to
prosecute the indictments resulting from your investigation.  The state attorney (or
the statewide prosecutor) has the duty to provide you not only the evidence unfavor-
able to the person under investigation but also any matters favorable to that person
that are known; consequently, the state attorney’s (or the statewide prosecutor’s)
recommendations usually are both practical and well-founded.  
2.9
The grand jury should not cause any subpoena to be issued for a witness nor
permit any witness to appear before it without first consulting the state attorney (or
the statewide prosecutor) or an assistant.  This is in order to avoid inadvertently
giving immunity to a person who may be subject to indictment.  
2.10
The court recommends that the grand jury call witnesses and consider
evidence only in those matters that are under consideration for presentment or
indictment, and refrain from calling witnesses or gathering evidence to be used in
cases in which an indictment or information has already been filed. You of course
may continue with any incomplete investigations, or call witnesses and consider
evidence as to any new charges against a person already indicted.
3
CIVIL INSTRUCTIONS
3.1
The grand jury is not limited to investigation of criminal matters. It has broad
powers to make inquiries into civil administration, regardless of whether criminal or
irregular conduct is charged. It has power to investigate public offices to determine
if they are being conducted according to law and good morals. It also has power to
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investigate the conduct of public affairs by public officials and employees, including
the power to inquire whether those officials are incompetent or lax in the perfor-
mance of their duties.
3.2
The grand jury should investigate every offense affecting the morals, health,
sanitation and general welfare of the county. It should inquire into matters of
governmental administration, including county institutions, buildings, offices and
officers, and, when appropriate, make presentment concerning the physical, sanitary
and general conditions.
3.3
You are cautioned, however, that a grand jury investigation shall not be made
the tool of any group in order to harass or oppress any individual or institution or to
pry into private affairs without good cause. Indictments based on street rumors or
common gossip will not be permitted. No person should be singled out by the grand
jury for the purpose of censure or to hold them up to scorn or criticism by imputa-
tion or innuendo. It is improper to make a presentment using words of censure or
reprobation so that a public official or any other person is impugned or embarrassed,
unless you return a “true bill.”
3.4
This is not to say, however, that the grand jury may not make a fair report on
its findings even though the report incidentally may reflect negligence or incom-
petence on the part of a public official. There are no limitations on the grand jury
telling the truth when circumstances justify it. Grand jury investigations of civil
matters and local government are not uncommon. They are necessary and
commendable if they produce good results. The searching eye and inquiring mind of
the grand jury is an effective deterrent to evil and corruption; no officer or agency of
government is above or beyond the reach of the grand jury. A public official or
employee who conducts public work in a proper manner has no reason to fear the
grand jury, and if there are reasons to do so, you should not hesitate to call any
public official or employee before you.
4
PROCEDURE
4.1
The officers of the grand jury are the foreperson and vice-foreperson, both to
be appointed by the court (or elected by the statewide grand jury body), and the
clerk, to be appointed by the foreperson.  
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DUTIES OF THE FOREPERSON: To preside over your sessions and see
that they are carried on in an orderly fashion; appoint your clerk at your first
session; be responsible for seeing that no person participating in or advising the
grand jury has any conflict of interest with the duties of a grand juror; consult with
the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) concerning the scope, means and
method of the grand jury’s investigation; report to the court any grand juror who the
foreperson has reason to believe has violated the oath, duties or responsibilities, or
who is subject to disqualification; sign all interim and final reports approved by the
grand jurors; return to the court a list of all witnesses who shall have been sworn by
the grand jury; and sign presentments and indictments approved by the grand jurors. 
DUTIES OF THE VICE-FOREPERSON: The vice-foreperson shall act in the
absence of the foreperson and perform all the duties incumbent on the foreperson.
4.2
DUTIES OF THE CLERK. The clerk shall keep an attendance record of the
grand jurors present and absent at each session; keep minutes of the proceedings at
each session. The minutes shall reflect the subject matter of the proceeding and the
names of the witnesses testifying in relation. The clerk shall record the aye and nay
vote on each vote taken by the grand jury, but by number only and not by the names
of the grand jurors. The clerk also shall sign all interim and final reports approved
by the grand jury.
(Give only if applicable) This grand jury has had a special fund budgeted for
its use. The court will therefore appoint one of your number treasurer of this grand
jury. The treasurer shall keep accounts of all receipts and disbursements of any
funds received or disbursed by the grand jury.
4.3
The state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) and assistants are your legal
advisors on all matters that come before the grand jury.  It is your duty to give
weight and careful consideration to this advice. The state attorney (or the statewide
prosecutor) or an assistant shall be present at all times when you are making
investigations, and will interrogate the witnesses and administer the necessary oaths.
The state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) will draft “true bills” for the
grand jury and will provide the means for the drafting of its presentments.  
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4.4
Every grand jury shall consist of not less than _____ nor more than _____
persons. At least __________ of the jury must be present at all times when the jury
is functioning. A favorable vote of not less than _____ of those present is necessary
to the finding of any “true bill,” presentment or report.
4.5
It is within your discretion to recess from day to day and week to week
subject to the requirements of your duties. You are reminded, however, that the term
of court is limited and the time within which you may act likewise is limited. You
therefore should attend to your duties diligently and in as short a time as is compati-
ble with the necessary attention to the work to be done.
4.6
The testimony and statements of those appearing before the grand jury may
will be recorded by stenographic or mechanical means.  If after consultation with the
state attorney you deem it necessary, you may call for the services of one of the
official court reporters of this court.  The court reporters are officers of the court and
are bound to secrecy when serving the grand jury.  The law requires that the notes,
records and any transcriptions prepared by the court reporter be impounded and
sealed when your work is completed.  The court reporter’s notes may not be
transcribed unless ordered by the court or the grand jury itself, and even after
transcription they may not be inspected by any person other than the state attorney
(or the statewide prosecutor) and the grand jury, except upon order of the court.  
The decision to have a court reporter present during your sessions is to be
made by the grand jury after due consideration to the nature of the work to be done,
and it is recommended that the grand jury follow the advice of the state attorney (or
the statewide prosecutor) on this question.  
4.7
If necessary, the grand jury is authorized to obtain the services of a qualified
interpreter of a foreign language. An interpreter will be provided you upon request.
4.8
Bailiffs provided by the sheriff will be available to the grand jury as needed.
4.9
It is the duty of the judges of this court not only to initially charge a grand
jury concerning its duties but also to be available at all reasonable times to advise
the grand jury in the event it becomes necessary. If at any time during your term you
feel it necessary, you may call upon the court for any assistance it can render you.
4.10
This grand jury has a duty to cooperate with any other grand jury investiga-
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tions being conducted in this county or elsewhere in the state if the administration of
justice requires it, including making reports of your investigation available to any
subsequent grand jury of the county (or the statewide grand jury).
 5
DISQUALIFICATION OF A GRAND JUROR
5.1
A grand juror is disqualified from participating in an investigation of any
person to whom the grand juror is related by blood or marriage or when a grand
juror has a conflicting interest in any matter under investigation by the grand jury.
Grand jurors found to be disqualified may excuse themselves or may be excused by
the court, or a majority of the grand jurors may vote to prohibit a juror's participa-
tion in the investigation, deliberation or voting.
The court should be promptly advised of the disqualification of any juror.
6
DISQUALIFICATION OF STATE ATTORNEY (OR STATEWIDE
PROSECUTOR)
6.1
If the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) is disqualified from advising
and participating in the duties of the grand jury, the court will appoint a special state
attorney (or a special statewide prosecutor.)
The state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) will counsel, assist and
advise the grand jury; however, should any irreconcilable conflict arise between the
state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) and the grand jury, the court is available
to assist in resolving the problems.  
7
JURY FUNCTIONS ONLY AS A BODY
7.1
The grand jury functions and operates only as a whole body. No individual or
group of grand jurors may make, or attempt to make, any independent investigation
whatsoever.
7.2
The law provides that, if a grand juror knows or has reason to believe that an
indictable offense triable in this county has been committed, the juror shall declare
that fact to the other jurors for investigation. Individually, a juror may receive
information but that information shall be reported immediately to the foreperson or
the state attorney (or the statewide prosecutor) for investigation if it is of interest to
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the grand jury or relevant to its investigations.  
8
CHILD LABOR, ELECTION, SUBVERSIVE ACTIVITIES LAWS
8.1
CHILD LABOR LAW: The law requires that the court specifically charge the
grand jury, and you are now charged, to investigate any alleged violation of the
child labor laws of the state.
8.2
ELECTIONS: If requested by any candidate or qualified voter, the grand jury,
if it convenes during a campaign period preceding an election day, shall investigate
to determine if there are any violations of the election code. A “true bill” shall be
returned if grounds exist for same.
8.3
SUBVERSIVE ACTIVITIES LAW: The subversive activities laws of this
state make it unlawful for any subversive organization or foreign subversive
organization to exist or function in the State of Florida. The court charges you that,
if you have any information or belief concerning violation of the subversive activi-
ties laws, you will report the information to the court immediately. You are further
charged that, if circumstances make it appropriate, you will inquire into the violation
of the subversive activities laws and may inquire generally into the purposes,
processes and activities or other matter affecting communists or any related or other
subversive organization.
9
OATH
 9.1
The court would now like to emphasize the importance of the oath that each
of you has just taken. The oath is prescribed by law and contains in simple terms the
solemn obligation by which you are bound, and which you must observe in every
respect. It contains no unnecessary words. It means exactly what it says.
9.2
The oath, in part, is that “You, as grand jurors for ___________ County (or
statewide grand jury) do solemnly swear (or affirm) that you will diligently inquire
into all matters put in your charge and you will make true presentments of your
findings; unless ordered by a court, you will not disclose the nature or substance of
the deliberations of the grand jury, the nature or substance of any testimony or other
evidence, the vote of the grand jury, or the statements of the state attorney (or the
statewide prosecutor.”) 
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9.3
The importance of this part of the oath binding you to secrecy cannot be over-
emphasized. I now charge you that you shall not under any circumstances discuss
the matters to be kept secret unless you are released by court order. Your vote shall
never be known; the opinion expressed by any of you on any matter before the
grand jury shall never be made known; and the testimony given before you shall not
be made known except by order of court. This secrecy is binding upon you for all
times.
9.4
The oath concludes as follows:
“You shall not make a presentment against a person because of envy, hatred,
or malice, and you shall not fail to make a presentment against a person because of
love, fear, or reward. So help you God.”
9.5
The oath, like the grand jury itself, is of ancient vintage.  It is in substance the
same oath  as was administered to grand juries under the common law.  It is near
perfect.  It contains the rules and high standards of fearless and impartial justice that
will govern you in your service as the grand jury of this county (or statewide grand
jury).  Its solemn dictates are as appropriate as they have been in the long past.  
10
CONCLUSION
10.1
The instructions you have just been given constitute the general charges that
are given to the grand jury as to its duties, responsibilities and procedures.  You are
admonished to give careful and serious consideration to all phases of all parts of the
charge.  You are to follow these charges, and having done so you should act
according to the dictates of your own conscience and only in the best interest of the
citizens of this county (or the state).  
11
APPOINTMENT
11.1
The court appoints _______________________ as foreperson, and
________________ as vice-foreperson, or in the case of the statewide grand jury,
authorizes you as a group to select your foreperson and vice-foreperson.  The
foreperson will appoint the clerk and advise the clerk of the circuit court (or
Supreme Court) of the clerk’s name so that it may be entered in the minutes of the
court.  You may now retire to the grand jury room and commence your labor.
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Proposal 3: A Revised Instruction on Aggravated Child Abuse
AGGRAVATED CHILD ABUSE (TORTURED)
 (MALICIOUSLY PUNISHED) (CAGED)
F.S. Fla. Stat. 827.03(2)
Before you can find the defendant guiltyTo prove the crime of (crime
alleged) aggravated child abuse, the State must prove the following two
elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
Elements
1.
(Defendant)
Give 1a, 1b or 1c as applicable
a.
committed aggravated battery upon (victim)
ab. [willfully tortured] (victim)
bc. [maliciously punished] (victim)
cd. [willfully and unlawfully caged] (victim)
e.
knowingly or willfully committed child abuse upon (victim)
and in so doing caused great bodily harm, permanent dis-
ability, or permanent disfigurement.
2.
(Victim) was under the age of eighteen years.
Definitions:  Give as applicable
In order to prove that an aggravated battery was committed, the
state must prove the following:
1.
(Defendant) intentionally
Give as applicable
a.  touched or struck (victim) against the will of (victim)
b.  caused bodily harm to (victim)
2.
In so doing, (Defendant) intentionally or knowingly caused
[great bodily harm] [permanent disability] [permanent
disfigurement] or [ used a deadly weapon]
A weapon is a “deadly weapon” if it is used or threatened to be
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used in a way likely to produce death or great bodily harm.
Definitions; give if 1a alleged F.S. 827.01(3)
“Torture” means every act, omission, or neglect by which unneces-
sary or unjustifiable pain or suffering is caused.
Give if 1a or 1c alleged
“Willfully” means knowingly, intentionally, and purposely.
Give if 1b alleged
“Maliciously” means wrongfully, intentionally, without legal
justification or excuse done from ill will, hatred, spite, or an evil intent.
Give in all cases if 1(e) is alleged
“Child Abuse” means [the intentional infliction of physical or
mental injury upon a child] [an intentional act that could reasonably be
expected to result in physical or mental injury to a child] [active encour-
agement of any person to commit an act that results or could reasonably
be expected to result in physical or mental injury to a child].
_____________________
Lesser Included Offenses
Category One:
None
Category Two:
Child Abuse Fla. Stat. 827.03(1)
Battery Fla. Stat. 784.03
_____________________
Comment
This instruction is based on section 827.03(2), Florida Statutes (1999).  The
definition of malice as used in this statute is from State v. Gaylord, 356 So. 2d 313
(Fla. 1978); see also Young v. State, 753 So. 2d 725 (Fla. 1st DCA 2000).
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Proposal 4: A Revised Instruction on Child Abuse
CHILD ABUSE
Fla. Stat. 827.03(1)
To prove the crime of child abuse, the state must prove the following two
elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
1.
(Defendant)
Give as applicable
a.
intentionally inflicted physical or mental injury upon (victim)
b.
committed an intentional act that could reasonably be ex-
pected to result in physical or mental injury to (victim)
c.
actively encouraged another person to commit an act that
resulted in or could reasonably have been expected to result
in physical or mental injury to (victim).
2.
(Victim) was under the age of eighteen years.
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Proposal 5: A New Instruction on Neglect of  a Child
NEGLECT OF A CHILD
Fla. Stat. 827.03(3)(b)
(Great Bodily Harm, Permanent Disability,
or Permanent Disfigurement)
To prove the crime of neglect of a child with [great bodily harm] [perma-
nent disability] [permanent disfigurement], the state must prove the following
four elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
1.
(Defendant)
Give as applicable
a.
[willfully] [by culpable negligence] failed or omitted to pro-
vide (victim) with the care, supervision, and services neces-
sary to maintain (victim's) physical or mental health
b.
failed to make a reasonable effort to protect (victim) from
abuse, neglect, or exploitation by another person.
2.
In so doing, (defendant) caused [great bodily harm] [permanent
disability] [permanent disfigurement] to (victim).
3.
(Defendant) was a caregiver for (victim).
4.
(Victim) was under the age of eighteen years.
Neglect of a child may be based on repeated conduct or on a single
incident or omission that resulted in, or reasonably could have been expected to
result in, serious physical or mental injury, or a substantial risk of death, to a
child.
Definition:  Give in all cases
“Caregiver” means a parent, adult household member, or other
person responsible for a child's welfare.
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Definition:  Give if applicable
I will now define what is meant by the term “culpable negligence”: 
Each of us has a duty to act reasonably toward others.  If there is a
violation of that duty, without any conscious intention to harm, that
violation is negligence.  But culpable negligence is more than a failure to
use ordinary care for others.  For negligence to be called culpable negli-
gence, it must be gross and flagrant.  The negligence must be committed
with an utter disregard for the safety of others.  Culpable negligence is
consciously doing an act or following a course of conduct that the defen-
dant must have known, or reasonably should have known, was likely to
cause death or great bodily harm.
_____________________
Lesser Included Offenses
Category One:
Child Neglect Fla. Stat. 827.03(3)(c)
Category Two:
 None
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Proposal 6: A New Instruction on Child Neglect Without Great Harm
NEGLECT OF A CHILD
Fla. Stat. 827.03(3)(c)
(Without Great Bodily Harm, Permanent Disability, 
or Permanent Disfigurement)
To prove the crime of neglect of a child, the state must prove the follow-
ing three elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
1.
(Defendant)
Give as applicable
a.
[willfully] [by culpable negligence] failed or omitted to pro-
vide (victim) with the care, supervision, and services neces-
sary to maintain (victim's) physical or mental health
b.
failed to make a reasonable effort to protect (victim) from
abuse, neglect, or exploitation by another person.
2.
(Defendant) was a caregiver for (victim).
3.
(Victim) was under the age of eighteen years.
Neglect of a child may be based on repeated conduct or on a single
incident or omission that resulted in, or reasonably could have been expected to
result in, serious physical or mental injury, or a substantial risk of death, to a
child.
Definition:  Give in all cases
“Caregiver” means a parent, adult household member, or other
person responsible for a child's welfare.
Definition:  Give if applicable
I will now define what is meant by the term “culpable negligence”: 
Each of us has a duty to act reasonably toward others.  If there is a
violation of that duty, without any conscious intention to harm, that
violation is negligence.  But culpable negligence is more than a failure to
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use ordinary care for others.  For negligence to be called culpable negli-
gence, it must be gross and flagrant.  The negligence must be committed
with an utter disregard for the safety of others.  Culpable negligence is
consciously doing an act or following a course of conduct that the defen-
dant must have known, or reasonably should have known, was likely to
cause death or great bodily harm.
 
_____________________
Lesser Included Offenses
Category One:
None
Category Two:
Culpable Neglegence, Fla. Stat. 784.05
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Proposal 7: A New Instruction on the Use of Transcripts
USE OF TRANSCRIPTS
OF RECORDINGS
You are about to hear recorded conversations.  These recorded conversa-
tions are proper evidence and you may consider them just as any other evi-
dence.
You are also being furnished transcripts of the recorded conversations.
The recordings are the evidence and the transcripts are provided to you
only as a guide to help you follow as you listen to the recordings.  The tran-
scripts are not evidence of what was actually said or who said it.
If you notice any difference between what you hear on the recordings and
what you read in the transcripts, you must rely on what you hear not what you
read.
_____________________
Comment
This instruction is not intended to apply to a recording of a conversation in any
language other than English. In case of disputed transcripts, see  Martinez v. State,
761 So.2d 1074 (Fla. 2000).