Houston Texas Jury Instruction Aboutou— - Knowingly - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element is a specific legal instruction given to the jury in criminal cases in Houston, Texas. This instruction is provided when the prosecution is not required to prove willfulness or specific intent as an element of the crime. The purpose of this jury instruction is to ensure that the jury understands that the accused can be convicted even if they did not act willfully or with a specific intent to commit the crime. Here, the focus is on whether the accused knew that their actions were unlawful. If the jury finds that the accused acted knowingly, meaning they were aware of the nature and character of their actions, it is sufficient to establish guilt. It is important to note that this instruction is only applicable when willfulness or specific intent is not an element of the crime charged. In other words, if the statute defining the offense explicitly requires proof of willfulness or specific intent, this instruction is not given. Types of Houston Texas Jury Instruction Aboutou— - Knowingly - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element may vary depending on the specific crime being charged. Some common examples include: 1. Houston Texas Jury Instruction Aboutou— - Knowingly - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element — Robbery: In cases where the prosecution charges the defendant with robbery, this instruction may be given if the accused knew that they were taking someone else's property without their consent, regardless of whether they intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property. 2. Houston Texas Jury Instruction Aboutou— - Knowingly - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element — Drug Possession: In cases involving drug possession, this instruction may be provided if the accused was aware that they were in possession of a controlled substance, regardless of their intent to use or distribute it. 3. Houston Texas Jury Instruction Aboutou— - Knowingly - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element — Assault: When a person is charged with assault, this instruction may be given if the accused knowingly and intentionally caused bodily injury to another person, without the need to prove a specific intent to harm or injure. These are just a few examples of how the Houston Texas Jury Instruction Aboutou— - Knowingly - Only When Willfulness or Specific Intent is Not an Element can be tailored to different crimes. The specific wording and application of this instruction may vary depending on the individual case and the charge brought against the defendant.