Houston Texas Jury Instruction — Modified Allen Charge is a legal instruction given to jurors when they are deadlocked or unable to reach a unanimous verdict in a criminal trial. This instruction aims to promote further deliberation among the jurors and encourage them to re-examine their positions in an effort to reach a consensus. The Modified Allen Charge, widely applied in Houston Texas courts, is an adaptation of the traditional Allen Charge. It is designed to guide jurors through the decision-making process while respecting the value of each juror's opinion. It emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness, careful consideration of evidence, and respectful communication among jurors. There are several variations of the Houston Texas Jury Instruction — Modified Allen Charge, each serving a specific purpose: 1. Modified Allen Charge for Deadlocked Jury: This charge is given when the jury is unable to come to a unanimous decision after thorough deliberation. It stresses the importance of sharing differing views respectfully and encourages jurors to listen and consider alternative perspectives. 2. Modified Allen Charge for Stalled Deliberations: This instruction is used when the jury's deliberations have reached a stalemate or show signs of being stuck. It prompts jurors to re-evaluate their positions and reassess the evidence with an open mind, with the ultimate goal of reaching a unanimous decision. 3. Modified Allen Charge for Evidentiary Disputes: Occasionally, jurors may encounter discrepancies or disagreements regarding the interpretation or admissibility of evidence. This variant of the instruction guides jurors on how to overcome these obstacles, emphasizing the importance of resolving evidentiary issues through thoughtful dialogue and by considering the guidance provided by the court. 4. Modified Allen Charge for Impartiality: This instruction is provided when jurors exhibit biases or strong opinions that may hinder a fair and impartial decision-making process. It reminds jurors of their duty to be fair, open-minded, and to give equal weight to all evidence presented during the trial. In conclusion, the Houston Texas Jury Instruction — Modified Allen Charge encompasses a range of instructions aimed at tackling specific challenges that arise during jury deliberations. By utilizing these instructions, the court endeavors to facilitate a fair and just trial process, ensuring that the jurors work together to reach a unanimous verdict based on careful consideration of the evidence and respectful exchange of ideas.