6.Jury Dismissal

JUDGE EVERETT: Members of the jury, I'm going to give you one last brief instruction, and from here you will be discharged from your service.

On behalf of the parties, the lawyers, and the people of the State of Florida, I want to thank you for your time and consideration of this case. I'm also going to advise you of some special privileges that are enjoyed by jurors. No juror can be required to talk about the discussions that occurred in the jury room except by Court order. For many centuries, our society has relied upon juries for consideration of difficult cases. We have recognized for hundreds of years a jury's deliberations, discussions, and votes should remain a private affair for as long as they wish it. Therefore, the law gives you a unique privilege not to speak about the jury's work.

The lawyers and their representatives are not permitted to initiate any communication with you concerning the trial. However, you may speak to the lawyers or anyone else about the trial if you desire.

You also have the right to refuse to speak with anyone. A request may come from those who are simply curious or from those who might seek to find fault with this decision. It will be up to you to decide whether to preserve your privacy as a juror.

We give you our sincere thanks for the work that you have performed over this two-week trial. You are discharged. Have a wonderful evening.