As amended through September 19, 2024
(a)Requested Instructions-Objections. At the close of the evidence or at such earlier time as the court reasonably directs, any party may file written requests that the court give the jury specific instructions. Such requests must be furnished to adverse parties. The court shall inform counsel of the final form of jury instructions prior to their arguments to the jury. Following the close of the evidence, before or after the arguments of counsel, the court shall instruct the jury. Additionally, the court may give the jury such instructions as it deems necessary at any stage of the trial. The instructions must be reduced to writing and read to the jury and must be taken to the jury room by the jury. No party may assign as error any portion of the charge or omission therefrom unless the party objects thereto before the jury retires to consider its verdict, stating distinctly the matter to which the party objects and the grounds of the objections. Opportunity must be given to make the objection out of the hearing of the jury by excusing the jury or hearing objections in chambers.(b)Instructions to Be Given. The court shall instruct the jury on all matters of law which it considers necessary for the jury's information in giving their verdict.Adopted by SCO 4 10/4/1959; amended by SCO 49 effective 1/1/1963; by SCO 79 effective 2/1/1966; by SCO 222 effective 12/15/1975; and by SCO 923 effective 1/15/1989