What is a trial court's duty to instruct a jury on every theory that is supported by substantial evidence?

California, United States of America


The following excerpt is from People v. Bagley, C080785 (Cal. App. 2017):

"A trial court must instruct the jury on every theory that is supported by substantial evidence, that is, evidence that would allow a reasonable jury to make a determination in accordance with the theory presented under the proper standard of proof. [Citation.] We review the trial court's decision de novo." (People v. Cole (2004) 33 Cal.4th 1158, 1206.) The trial court's duty to instruct sua sponte on a defense " ' "only [arises] if it appears that the defendant is relying on such a defense, or if there is substantial evidence supportive of such a defense and the defense is not inconsistent with the defendant's theory of the case." ' " (People v. Maury (2003) 30 Cal.4th 342, 424.)

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