Oklahoma Jury Instruction — Duty to Follow Instructions A crucial aspect of the judicial process in Oklahoma is the concept of jury instructions, specifically the duty of jurors to follow these instructions. Jury instructions provide guidance to jurors on the law applicable to a given case, ensuring that they reach a fair and just verdict based on the evidence presented. In Oklahoma, there are various types of jury instructions related to the duty to follow instructions, including the following: 1. Standard Jury Instruction on Duty to Follow Instructions: This instruction emphasizes the paramount importance of jurors adhering to the instructions provided by the judge. It explains that jurors must rely solely on the evidence presented and the law as explained to them, disregarding any personal opinions or biases. The instruction outlines that jurors should not conduct independent research or consider any information not presented in court. 2. Specific Jury Instructions for Criminal Cases: For criminal cases, Oklahoma provides specific jury instructions instructing jurors on their duty to follow instructions during deliberations. These instructions highlight that jurors must apply the law as explained by the judge, carefully evaluating the evidence and determining whether the prosecution has met the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. 3. Specific Jury Instructions for Civil Cases: In civil cases, jury instructions similarly emphasize the obligation of jurors to follow the instructions provided by the judge. These instructions ensure that jurors understand that they are not to substitute their own judgment or personal beliefs for the law, but rather assess the evidence before them in accordance with the legal principles presented. 4. Consequences for Failure to Follow Instructions: Oklahoma jury instructions also outline the possible consequences if jurors fail to adhere to the given instructions. Jurors may face mistrial situations or contribute to a verdict being overturned on appeal if they engage in misconduct, disregard the instructions, or consider improper evidence. 5. Additional Instructions on Presumptions and Burdens of Proof: In some cases, jury instructions may cover specific legal presumptions or burdens of proof that jurors must consider. These instructions explain the legal standards required for establishing guilt or liability and guide jurors on the weight and significance of different types of evidence. In summary, Oklahoma jury instructions on the duty to follow instructions play a critical role in ensuring fair and impartial verdicts. They clarify to jurors their responsibilities to consider only the evidence presented and the law shared by the judge. Understanding and following jury instructions are fundamental to the integrity of the Oklahoma judicial system, guaranteeing a fair trial for all parties involved.