If your case goes to a jury trial in Oklahoma, one of the most important—yet often overlooked—parts of the process is the jury instructions. These instructions serve as the legal roadmap that guides the jury’s decision-making. They help jurors understand the law, apply it to the facts presented, and reach a fair verdict.
What Are Jury Instructions?
Jury instructions are directions the judge gives to the jury before they begin deliberations. These instructions explain the legal standards that apply to the case, what elements must be proven, and how the jurors should evaluate the evidence.
They typically cover:
- The burden of proof or “beyond a reasonable doubt“
- The elements of each charge or claim
- The defenses available under the law
- The duties of jurors and how to deliberate
- Rules about weighing testimony and credibility of witnesses
The goal is to make sure jurors apply the law correctly, regardless of personal opinions or emotions.
Who Prepares Them?
In most cases, both sides submit proposed instructions based on standard legal templates and the specifics of the case. Oklahoma has model jury instructions for both criminal and civil trials, known as the OUJI (Oklahoma Uniform Jury Instructions).
The judge reviews all proposed instructions and decides which ones to give, and in some courts, the jurors also receive a written copy to use during deliberations.
Why Jury Instructions Matter
Jury instructions have a significant impact on the outcome of a trial. If the instructions are unclear, legally incorrect, or biased, it can lead to an unfair verdict. For example, if the court fails to properly explain a key defense in a criminal case, the jury may convict someone without fully understanding the legal standard required to find them guilty.
Is it Possible to Challenge the Instructions?
Attorneys often object to improper or missing instructions before the judge reads them. If the trial judge refuses to correct the issue, the error may be raised on appeal. Appellate courts will review whether the error likely influenced the verdict and whether it deprived the defendant of a fair trial.
Tulsa Jury Trial Attorneys
Jury instructions can make or break a case, but we advocate aggressively in criminal trials to ensure the jury hears clear, accurate, and fair instructions. If you’re facing trial or want to know more about how juries work, call our team at Tulsa Criminal Lawyers Law Firm at (918) 416-0358 or contact us online for a consultation with an attorney.