SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1969
8:50 A.M.
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THE COURT: People versus Beausoleil.

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. I think this is about as close to getting started on time as I can remember around here.

I might say, just to start with, we have another jury trial in progress so that it is going to be necessary to find some place for you to conduct your deliberations. I have checked with Judge Clinco and we will use the jury room in Department A. So just as soon as we have concluded instructions, the bailiff will take you downstairs. You will conduct your deliberations down there.

In the event that it becomes necessary to ask any questions during your deliberations, you will inform the bailiff, and we will take care of it from there, and we will be able to reconvene if that becomes necessary.

(Whereupon, the jury was instructed.)

Upon retiring to the jury room, you will select one of you, who will sign the verdict to which you agree. In order to return a verdict, it is necessary that all 12 of the jurors agree to the decision. As soon as all of you have agreed upon a verdict, you will have it signed and dated by your foreman and then return with it to this courtroom.

In that regard, ladies and gentlemen, you have in this case three possible verdicts: One would be a verdict of, one, guilty of murder of the first degree, or fixing it at second degree, or a verdict of not guilty. Therefore, three forms will be provided to you. You will select one which represents your ultimate decision in the case and ignore the other two.

You will have with you in the jury room all of the exhibits which have been introduced into evidence. You will also have these instructions with you. If, during your deliberations, you have any question about any of the evidence or any of the instructions, just let the bailiff know, and we will reconvene to answer any such questions.

The Clerk will swear the bailiff.

THE CLERK: Do you solemnly swear that you will take charge of the jury and keep them together, and that you will not speak to them yourself, nor allow anyone else to speak to them upon matters connected with this case, except by order of the Court, and when they have agreed upon a verdict, you will return them into Court, so help you God?

THE BAILIFF: I do.

THE COURT: Now, ladies and gentlemen, if you will please remain together, the bailiff will take you down to the jury room in Department A.