(a)        Requests for special instructions to the jury must be –

(1)        In writing,

(2)        Entitled in the cause, and

(3)        Signed by counsel submitting them.

(b)        Such requests for special instructions must be submitted to the trial judge before the judge’s charge to the jury is begun. However, the judge may, in his discretion, consider such requests regardless of the time they are made.

(c)        Written requests for special instructions shall, after their submission to the judge, be filed as a part of the record of the same. (C.C.P., s. 239; Code, s. 415; Rev., s. 538; C.S., s. 565; 1951, c. 837, s. 6.)

Terms Used In North Carolina General Statutes 1-181

  • Charge to the jury: The judge's instructions to the jury concerning the law that applies to the facts of the case on trial.
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.