Opinion ID: 1663395
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 10

Heading: Recesses

Text: During the trial we will take recesses. During these recesses you shall not discuss the case among yourselves or with anyone else, nor permit anyone to say anything to you or in your presence about the case. Further, you must not talk with the attorneys, the witnesses, or any of the parties about anything, until your deliberations are finished. In this way, any appearance of something improper can be avoided. If during a recess you see one of the attorneys and he or she does not speak to you, or even seem to pay attention to you, please understand that the attorney is not being discourteous but is only avoiding the appearance of some improper contact with you. If anyone tries to say something to you or in your presence about this case, tell that person that you are on the jury trying this case, and ask that person to stop. If he or she keeps on, leave at once and immediately report this to the bailiff or court deputy, who will advise me. (Explain to the jury the anticipated schedule of recesses and adjournments. The court at this point may, if appropriate, introduce the various court officials such as the clerk, bailiff or court deputy, and court reporter, explaining their duties.) [After all the evidence has been presented, I will give you complete instructions regarding the law governing your deliberations. At this time, however, I will explain some principles of law to assist you in considering the evidence.]