Access the Eighth Circuit’s Model Jury Instructions Builder (JIB). The JIB includes the latest changes to the Civil and Criminal Jury Instructions, reflecting changes made through July 30, 2025.

The JIB is recommended over print editions as it is updated annually, while print copies are published every couple of years. Though publishers pull content from the JIB, given the time it takes to go to print, even new print editions are often already out of date.

Existing instructions are regularly reviewed for currency and consistency with the law. Even if there are no newly adopted instructions, changes are often substantial, especially in the wake of landmark decisions.

Though jury instructions are carefully reviewed and updated, it cannot be assumed that all jury instructions, as presented, will be appropriate for the facts and circumstances of a particular case. Because of this, instructions should be drafted or adapted to fit each case.

Email feedback about the JIB to Jury_Instruction_Feedback@ca8.uscourts.gov.

JIB Tips & Tricks

Can I get a “full” version of the Civil or Criminal Jury Instructions?

Yes! On the JIB home page, under “Reference Materials,” download a PDF or Word version of the most recent edition of the Civil or Criminal Jury Instructions.

What are the Overviews in the Civil Jury Instructions?

These are mini-treatises that cover the law addressed by that chapter’s jury instructions and are reviewed and updated regularly. Overviews are unique to the Civil Jury Instructions.

These overviews are loaded into the JIB and can be added to customized packets.

What are Notes on Use and Committee Comments?

These are annotations that are included with most Civil and Criminal Jury Instructions. Because each case is unique, these annotations help address some common issues or concerns that may arise with individual jury instructions.