Section 13.19 Commenting on Instructions

• Library: Civil Trial Practice 2015 Supp

Q. (§13.19) Commenting on Instructions

Of course, counsel may comment on instructions in argument. Rhomberg v. Israel, 296 S.W. 860 (Mo. App. W.D. 1927). But instructing the jury is within the province of the court only, and counsel must not, by argument, undertake to instruct the jury on the law. Stroh v. Johns, 264 S.W.2d 304 (Mo. 1954); Casto v. Ry. Express Co., 219 S.W.2d 276 (Mo. App. W.D. 1949); Dunn v. St. Louis-San Francisco Ry. Co., 621 S.W.2d 245 (Mo. banc 1981); Eickelman v. Ill. Cent. Gulf R.R. Co., 714 S.W.2d 611 (Mo. App. E.D. 1986). See Will v. Gilliam, 439 S.W.2d 498 (Mo. 1969).

Courts will generally consider argument as to future...