NextPrevious

Criminal Procedures

Trial Process

Can the jury receive written copies of the judge’s instructions?

In many jurisdictions, jurors can receive a written copy of the judge’s instructions to the jury. For example, Arkansas Rule of Criminal Procedure, Rule 33.6 provides that upon request of an attorney in the case or any juror, a written copy of the jury instructions shall be provided to the jury. Utah Rule of Criminal Procedure, Rule 19 provides: “Final instructions shall be in writing and at least one copy provided to the jury. The court shall provide a copy to any juror who requests one and may, in its discretion, provide a copy to all jurors.”