Oregon Jury Instructions — Defendant's Failure to Testify are legal instructions provided to the jury in a criminal trial in the state of Oregon when a defendant chooses not to testify. These instructions clarify the defendant's right to remain silent and the fact that their decision not to testify must not be considered as evidence of guilt. Here are some relevant keywords to be included in the content: Oregon jury instructions, defendant's failure to testify, criminal trial, remain silent, evidence of guilt. There are two types of Oregon Jury Instructions — Defendant's Failure to Testify that are commonly given: 1. General Instruction: This instruction informs the jury about the defendant's constitutional right to remain silent. It emphasizes that the prosecution's burden of proof remains unchanged, and the defendant's decision not to testify should not be used as evidence against them. The instruction reinforces the principle that every accused individual has the right to choose whether to testify or not. 2. Selective Instruction: In certain cases, when the defense strategy or specific circumstances warrant it, the defense attorney may request a selective instruction. This instruction is tailored to address the specific concerns or issues related to the defendant's decision not to testify. It provides additional clarification to the jury regarding the defendant's silence and ensures that the jury does not infer guilt from the defendant's absence on the witness stand. Overall, these Oregon Jury Instructions — Defendant's Failure to Testify play a vital role in upholding the defendant's constitutional rights and ensuring a fair trial. They help prevent any prejudice or bias that may arise from a defendant's decision to remain silent and stress the importance of basing a verdict solely on the evidence presented by the prosecution. It is important for jurors to understand that the defendant's silence should not be interpreted as an admission of guilt but rather as an exercise of their fundamental right to remain silent during the trial. By following these instructions, the jurors can reach a fair and unbiased decision based on the evidence presented and properly weigh the prosecution's case without drawing any negative inferences from the defendant's choice not to testify.