Opinion ID: 2336670
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: the definition of reasonable doubt in the charge of the court.

Text: In defining reasonable doubt the court did not advise the jury that such a doubt could arise from lack of evidence as well as from the entire comparison and consideration of all the evidence   . In State v. De Paola, 5 N.J. 1, 9 (1950), it was held to be reversible error not to so advise the jury upon defendant's request. Since then, as a precautionary measure, it has become customary for trial courts to include that refinement of the definition in their instructions. The advisability of doing so is further indicated by State v. Walker, 33 N.J. 580, 594-595 (1960). No such request to charge was presented in this case and the connotation of reasonable doubt advanced by the court is not challenged on this appeal. Consequently, our note here is merely advisory.