NCJ Number
77819
Date Published
1977
Length
768 pages
Annotation
This volume on criminal jury instructions in Washington State is intended as a guide for trial lawyers and judges in preparing instructions which are accurate statements of the law in a particular case.
Abstract
The pattern instructions are designed as simple, brief, unbiased statements of the law which are free from argument. A section on general instructions covers introductory instructions; definitions of terms; and instructions involving multiple charges and joint defendants, burden of proof and reasonable doubt, lesser included offenses, elements of the crime, view of the scene, trial, and deadlocked jury. Instructions are given concerning the consideration of evidence, principles of liability, and the following defenses: excusable and justifiable homicide, lawful force, miscellaneous and special statutory, and insanity defenses. Instructions are also presented concerning crimes against life, personal security, and property; sex crimes; drugs and controlled substances; crimes involving operation of motor vehicles; and arson and related crimes. Additional sections cover concluding instructions and instructions for anticipatory offenses, miscellaneous crimes, verdict forms, and mental illness or involuntary treatment. Four appendixes include a handbook for jurors, trial procedures concerning criminal instructions, the criminal jury trial summarized in narrative and scenario outline, and illustrative sets of instructions. Two tables of statutes and court rules are also appended.