Mississippi § 99-19-103 - Instructions; aggravating circumstances shall be designated by jury in writing upon recommending death; effect of jury’s failure to agree on punishment.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 99-19-103 — Instructions; aggravating circumstances shall be designated by jury in writing upon recommending death; effect of jury’s failure to agree on punishment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 99-19-103. Instructions; aggravating circumstances shall be designated by jury in writing upon recommending death; effect of jury’s failure to agree on punishment.
The statutory instructions as determined by the trial judge to be warranted by the evidence shall be given in the charge and in writing to the jury for its deliberation. The jury, if its verdict be a unanimous recommendation of death, shall designate in writing, signed by the foreman of the jury, the statutory aggravating circumstance or circumstances which it unanimously found beyond a reasonable doubt. Unless at least one (1) of the statutory aggravated circumstances enumerated in Section 99-19-101 is so found or if it is found that any such aggravating circumstance is overcome by the finding of one or more mitigating circumstances, the death penalty shall not be imposed. If the jury cannot, within a reasonable time, agree as to punishment, the judge shall dismiss the jury and impose a sentence of imprisonment for life.
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 99-19-103
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 99-19-103 cover?
Section 99-19-103 ("Instructions; aggravating circumstances shall be designated by jury in writing upon recommending death; effect of jury’s failure to agree on punishment.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Mississippi § 99-19-103?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 99-19-103" (Mississippi). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 99-19-103 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Mississippi.