Kansas Jury Instruction - Impeachment - Inconsistent Statement

• Category: Federal - Jury Instructions - Basic Criminal Claim Instructions
• State: Multi-State
• Control #: US-11CR-6-1
• Format: Word; Rich Text

Description

This form contains sample jury instructions, to be used across the United States. These questions are to be used only as a model, and should be altered to more perfectly fit your own cause of action needs.

The Kansas Jury Instruction on Impeachment — Inconsistent Statement is a critical legal instruction provided to jurors during a trial in Kansas. This instruction guides jurors on how to consider and weigh witness testimony when inconsistencies or contradictions arise. When a witness's statement contains inconsistent or contradictory statements, it becomes essential for the jury to carefully evaluate the witness's credibility and the weight that should be given to their testimony. Inconsistencies can significantly impact the overall reliability and trustworthiness of a witness's account and may influence the jury's ultimate decision. Kansas recognizes several types of impeachment based on inconsistent statements. The instructions provided to jurors may vary depending on the specific type of inconsistency found in the witness's statements. Some common types of inconsistent statements that may be addressed include: 1. Prior statements: This instruction is relevant when a witness's current testimony contradicts their previous statements made outside the courtroom. Jurors are instructed to consider whether the inconsistency arises from an honest mistake, a faulty memory, or an intentional act to deceive. 2. Inconsistent testimony: This instruction is relevant when a witness's testimony during the trial contradicts their earlier statement made under oath during a deposition or any other prior legal proceedings. Jurors are advised to evaluate the credibility of the witness and consider the reasons for the inconsistency. 3. Prior inconsistent statements: This instruction applies when a witness's current testimony contradicts statements they made earlier but not under oath. Jurors are directed to assess the credibility of the witness, the context in which the prior statement was made, and the reasons for the inconsistency. 4. Contradictory statements: This instruction focuses on situations where a witness provides contradictory statements within their current testimony or in different parts of their testimony. Jurors are instructed to scrutinize the contradictory statements and determine the impact on the witness's overall credibility. The purpose of the Kansas Jury Instruction on Impeachment — Inconsistent Statement is to guide jurors in evaluating witness testimony and determining the weight to assign to each witness's statements. It acknowledges that inconsistencies can arise due to various factors and helps jurors assess the credibility and reliability of witnesses. By carefully examining inconsistencies, jurors can make informed judgments while fulfilling their duty as impartial decision-makers in the courtroom.