Indiana Jury Rules

Rule 14. Introduction to Case

Effective January 1, 2007

(a) After welcoming the jury panel, the judge shall introduce the panel to the case. Unless sufficiently covered by the jury orientation, the judge's introduction to the case shall include at least the following:

(1) Introduction of the participants;

(2) The nature of the case;

(3) The applicable standard of proof;

(4) The applicable burden(s) of proof;

(5) The presumption of innocence in a criminal case;

(6) The appropriate means by which jurors may address their private concerns to the judge;

(7) The appropriate standard of juror conduct;

(8) The anticipated course of proceedings during trial; and

(9) The rules regarding challenges.

(b) To facilitate the jury panel's understanding of the case, with the court's consent the parties may present brief statements of the facts and issues (mini opening statements) to be determined by the jury.