Opinion ID: 2349441
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: Second Instruction (Winters)

Text: In a large proportion of cases, absolute certainty cannot be attained or expected[.] [A]lthough the verdict must be the verdict of each individual juror, and not a mere acquiescence in the conclusion of the other jurors[,] [y]et you should examine the question submitted to you with candor and with proper regard in deference to the opinions of each other. You should consider that it is desirable that this case be decided[;] [t]hat you are selected in the same manner, and from the same source[,] from which any future jury must be selected and there is no reason to suppose that the case will ever be submitted to twelve persons more intelligent, more impartial, or more competent to decide the case, or that more or clearer evidence will be produced on one side or the other. . . . And with this view[,] it is your duty to decide the case if you can conscientiously do so. You should listen to each other's arguments with a disposition to be convinced. Thus[,] where there is disagreement, jurors for acquittal should consider whether their doubt is a reasonable one which makes no impression upon the minds of others, equally honest, equally intelligent with themselves, and who have heard the same evidence[,] with the same attention, with an equal desire to arrive at the truth[,] and under the sanction of the same oath. And on the other hand, jurors for conviction ought seriously to ask themselves whether they might not reasonably doubt the correctness of a judgment which is not concurred in by others with whom they are associated[,] and distrust the weight or sufficiency of that evidence which fails to carry conviction in the minds of their fellow jurors.