Criminal Jury Charges Workshop 2022
This hands-on, intensive seminar provided participants with the opportunity to draft instructions at all stages of a jury trial, from jury selection and opening remarks, through the presentation of evidence, to the final charge and responses to questions from the jury.
Number of Participants: 24
Overview
This hands-on, intensive seminar provided participants with the opportunity to draft instructions at all stages of a jury trial, from jury selection and opening remarks, through the presentation of evidence, to the final charge and responses to questions from the jury.
Objective
The objective of this seminar was to provide participants with the skills needed to prepare legally correct, yet concise, plain language jury instructions in criminal law cases.
Summary
This seminar was centred on a detailed attempted murder scenario. Issues that were addressed include: procedure and instructions on a challenge for cause, management of the voir dire when a witness recants, including the content of any necessary instruction to the jury, and problems arising during jury deliberations. Participants worked in small groups led by experienced judicial faculty, who offered feedback and advice.