Rule 603 Exceptions

When a judge makes a ruling during a trial that goes against one side, that side automatically has their objection preserved for appeal. You do not need to say anything extra or ask the judge to "note your exception" on the record. It happens automatically.

However, this automatic protection does not apply to the judge's instructions to the jury. If you disagree with something the judge tells the jury, you need to speak up and object at that time to preserve the issue for a later appeal.