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Summit Today
By the People, for the People
Kouri Richins Murder Trial Begins in Utah
Defense attorney outlines key events on the first day of the high-profile case.
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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One of Utah's most closely watched murder trials has begun in Summit County, where Kouri Richins is accused of poisoning her husband. Defense attorney Suzanne Gustin, who is not connected to the case, explained what typically happens on the first day of a criminal trial, including jury selection, opening statements, and the decision of whether the defendant will testify.
Why it matters
The Richins case has garnered significant national attention due to the shocking nature of the alleged crime and the high-profile status of the defendant. The trial's outcome could have major implications for Richins' future and set a precedent for similar cases involving accusations of spousal murder.
The details
Richins has pleaded not guilty to killing her husband. On the first day of the trial, the judge will read preliminary instructions to the jury, and then the attorneys will deliver their opening statements. Gustin noted that jury selection took time due to the case's publicity, and there are often surprises that arise during a trial, including the critical decision of whether the defendant will testify.
- The trial is scheduled to run through late March 2026.
- The first day of the trial began on Monday, February 23, 2026.
The players
Kouri Richins
The defendant accused of poisoning her husband.
Suzanne Gustin
A defense attorney who is not connected to the Richins case but provided insight into the typical events of the first day of a criminal trial.
What they’re saying
“They're going to read preliminary instructions, and then they will jump right into opening statements.”
— Suzanne Gustin, Defense Attorney (KUTV)
“You're not just trying a case, which is stressful enough, but you have to factor in that, in this case, the country is watching, the world is watching.”
— Suzanne Gustin, Defense Attorney (KUTV)
“That's the biggest decision, usually, that you have to make during a trial: Is your client going to testify or not?”
— Suzanne Gustin, Defense Attorney (KUTV)
What’s next
The trial is scheduled to continue through late March 2026, with the judge expected to make a critical decision on whether Kouri Richins will testify in her own defense.
The takeaway
The Richins murder trial is a high-stakes case that has captured national attention, with the outcome potentially setting a precedent for similar spousal murder cases. The first day's events, including jury selection and opening statements, will set the tone for the rest of the proceedings, which will be closely watched by the public.
