The Colorado Supreme Court Model Criminal Jury Instructions Committee has issued its latest update to the model jury instructions used in criminal trials across the state. The revised instructions are now available online at https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/model-criminal-jury-instructions-committee.
The updated materials cover all offenses under Title 18 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, which comprises the state’s Criminal Code. They also address selected offenses from other sections of Colorado law, including traffic-related matters in Title 42.
This year’s update reflects changes brought by legislation enacted in 2025 and incorporates recent case law since the previous edition was released. A new section, Chapter 1.3‑8, has been added to provide guidance for cases where defendants are charged as habitual criminals.
Users can download both Word and PDF versions of the instructions, each featuring hyperlinks for easier navigation. Those with questions about the content or use of these instructions are encouraged to contact the committee at mcjic@judicial.state.co.us.
The Colorado Judicial Branch aims to build public trust by offering accessible legal services and transparent court procedures through its official website (https://www.courts.state.co.us). It oversees appellate courts—including the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals—located at the Ralph L. Carr Colorado Judicial Center in Denver (https://www.courts.state.co.us). The branch is responsible for providing a fair justice system that resolves disputes and upholds legal rights in civil and criminal matters (https://www.courts.state.co.us).
Court services extend throughout all counties and judicial districts in Colorado, covering a range of specialized courts (https://www.courts.state.co.us). The structure includes various courts and administrative offices working together to manage judicial caseloads statewide (https://www.courts.state.co.us). Additional resources such as trial courts, appellate review processes, public records access, self-help tools, and online payment options are also available through their site (https://www.courts.state.co.us).
For further details or access to the updated model jury instructions, individuals may visit https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/model-criminal-jury-instructions-committee.
