DWI Jury Instructions Must Be Tailored to the Evidence | DWI Defense

 

Proper DWI Jury Instructions

The Court of Criminal Appeals handed down its decision in Burnett v. State today holding that trial courts must tailor the definition of “intoxication” in DWI jury instructions to the facts raised in trial.

The intoxication facts in Burnett were as follows. The accused was involved in an accident, he had difficulty getting out of his car, and the officer claimed to have caught a “whiff” of alcohol. Two officers at the scene testified they believed Burnett was intoxicated and he failed three field sobriety tests. Burnett denied drinking. The officers also found hydrocodone pills in his jacket but there was no evidence as to its use or effects on Burnett. Burnett wasn’t even asked specifically if he knew what kind of pills they were although he was asked whether he had a prescription for “those” pills.

Evidence of Drugs But No Evidence of Drug Use

DWI Jury Instructions Must Be Tailored to the Evidence | DWI DefenseProsecutors argued that Burnett’s possession of the pills was admissible as (a prosecutor favorite) “same-transaction contextual evidence” which the Eastland Court of Appeals later found to be error.

Prosecutors also argued that the entire definition of intoxication should be given to juries regardless of the evidence raised at trials. The defense argued that a jury charge not tailored to the facts invites juries to speculate about other possible intoxicants which could lead to convicting innocent Texans who were tired or simply performed poorly on standardized field sobriety tests.

The Jury Charge

Burnett’s jury was given a charge that allowed them to find someone intoxicated “by not having the normal use of his mental and physical faculties by reason of the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance into his body.” While this is the complete definition of intoxication found in Chapter 49 of the Penal Code, the defense objected to the charge and argued that the only definition given to the jury should have been “by not having the normal use of his mental and physical faculties by reason of the introduction of alcohol.”

Court of Criminal Appeals Decision

The Court of Criminal Appeals agreed with the defense argument and ruled that a trial court must deliver to the jury a written charge setting forth the “law applicable to the case.” Part of the duty of a trial court includes applying the law to the facts of the case. Where there is no evidence that the defendant ingested a substance that caused him to become intoxicated, it is improper to give the jury an instruction that would allow them to speculate upon it.

A trial court must provide the jury with a charge that is tailored to the facts presented at trial. It is improper to give into the prosecutor’s request to submit the entire definition of “intoxicated” when the facts raised during the trial do not give rise to the complete definition.

Contact Us

If you are contemplating going to trial on a DWI case or if you’ve been arrested for any intoxication-related offense in north Texas, call us at (817) 203-2220 for a complimentary strategy session. Our team of former prosecutors and Board Certified Criminal Specialists are here to help. During this call we will:

  • Discuss the facts of your case;
  • Discuss the legal issues involved, including the direct and collateral consequences of the allegation; and
  • Discuss the defenses that apply to your plan and in general terms discuss our approach to your case.

You can also contact us online.

Call for a Free Consultation

(817) 203-2220

Contact Us Online:

On this Page:

About the Author Board Certified Lawyer Benson Varghese

About the Author

Benson Varghese is the managing partner of Varghese Summersett. He is a seasoned attorney, highly esteemed for his comprehensive knowledge and expertise in the field. He has successfully handled thousands of state and federal cases, ranging from misdemeanor driving while intoxicated cases to capital offenses, showcasing his commitment to preserving justice and upholding the rights of his clients. His firm covers criminal defense, personal injury, and family law matters. Benson is also a legal tech entrepreneur. Benson is a go-to authority in the legal community, known for his ability to explain complex legal concepts with clarity and precision. His writings offer a wealth of in-depth legal insights, reflecting his extensive experience and his passion for the law. Not only is Benson an accomplished litigator, but he is also a dedicated advocate for his clients, consistently striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for them. His authorship provides readers with valuable legal advice and an understanding of the complexities of the criminal justice system. CriminalPersonal InjuryFamily Law Contact
Varghese Summersett
4.9
Based on 1118 reviews
js_loader