Texas Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statemen— - Defendant Testifies With Felony Conviction is a specific jury instruction utilized in the Texas court system to address situations where a defendant testifies during trial, but has a prior felony conviction that could potentially impact their credibility as a witness. This instruction is vital for ensuring a fair and unbiased trial by allowing the jury to consider the defendant's credibility in light of their criminal history. When a defendant with a felony conviction chooses to testify, the opposing counsel may introduce evidence of their prior conviction to challenge their credibility. The Texas Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statemen— - Defendant Testifies With Felony Conviction provides guidelines for the jury to evaluate the defendant's statements based on the inconsistencies between their testimony and their previous felonious act. This instruction aims to prevent wrongful convictions or dismissals solely based on a defendant's prior criminal record. It is important to note that although a defendant's credibility may be impeached due to a felony conviction, the jury is reminded to base their decision on all the evidence presented, not solely on the defendant's criminal past. The Texas Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statemen— - Defendant Testifies With Felony Conviction is intended to strike a balance between considering the defendant's credibility and ensuring a fair trial. Different types of Texas Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statemen— - Defendant Testifies With Felony Conviction may include variations based on the specific circumstances of the case. For example: 1. Instruction for Jury Deliberation: This type of instruction guides the jury on how to evaluate the defendant's testimony and consider their credibility, taking into account any contradictions between their statements and their prior felony conviction. 2. Expert Testimony: In cases where an expert witness is called to testify, this instruction may include provisions on how the jury should consider the expert's opinion while being aware of the defendant's felony conviction and any inconsistencies in their statements. 3. Jury Instructions for Multiple Felony Convictions: When a defendant testifies in court but has multiple felony convictions, there might be variations in the jury instruction to address the potential impact of each conviction on their credibility, individually or collectively. Overall, the Texas Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statemen— - Defendant Testifies With Felony Conviction ensures that the jury carefully evaluates the defendant's testimony in light of their criminal history. It serves as a safeguard to maintain integrity and fairness throughout the trial process in cases where a defendant chooses to take the witness stand despite their prior felony conviction.