Mississippi Model Jury Instructions- Criminal
CHAPTER 5 DEFENSES

509 Self-Defense

In order for the defendant to have acted in self-defense, the defendant must [specify (1) have believed that [he/she] was in actual danger; (2) have reasonably believed that [name of victim] intended to kill the defendant; or (3) have reasonably believed that [name of victim] intended to cause great bodily harm to the defendant] and that the defendant reasonably believed that [name of victim] was about to carry out [his/her] actions against the defendant. The defendant does not have to prove that [he/she] acted in self-defense. The State has the burden of proving beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant did not act in self-defense. If you find that the State did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant did not act in self-defense, then you shall find the defendant not guilty of [specify crime charged].

 

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