Delaware § 307 - Jury inference of defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief.

Full text of Delaware Delaware Code § 307 — Jury inference of defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 307. Jury inference of defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief.

(a) The defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief at the time of the offense for which the defendant is charged may be inferred by the jury from the circumstances surrounding the act the defendant is alleged to have done. In making the inference permitted by this section, the jury may consider whether a reasonable person in the defendant’s circumstances at the time of the offense would have had or lacked the requisite intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief.

(b) When the defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief is an element of an offense, it is sufficient to establish a prima facie case for the State to prove circumstances surrounding the act which the defendant is alleged to have done from which a reasonable juror might infer that the defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief was of the sort required for commission of the offense.

11 Del. C. 1953, §  307;  58 Del. Laws, c. 497, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1; 

Source: official Delaware text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware § 307

What does Delaware Code § 307 cover?

Section 307 ("Jury inference of defendant’s intention, recklessness, knowledge or belief.") is part of the Delaware Code, the codified statutory law of Delaware. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Delaware § 307?

A common citation format is "Delaware Code § 307" (Delaware). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Delaware law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Delaware official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Delaware attorney.

How does Delaware § 307 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Delaware can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.