A jury instruction is the judge's oral explanation of the law governing a case. Jury instructions are given after the attorneys have presented all the evidence and have made final arguments, but before the jury begins deliberations. Improper explanations of the law to be applied in jury instructions are often the basis for later appeals.
Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion: Conversion refers to an unlawful act of intentionally and substantially interfering with the personal property rights of another person. It encompasses the exercise of control over someone else's property in a manner that is adverse to their rights, without their consent. The following instructions outline the different types of Conversion instructions commonly used in Connecticut: 1. Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion: This instruction provides a general definition of conversion, emphasizing the defendant's intentional interference with another person's property rights without permission. It highlights the importance of the defendant's control and exercise of dominion over the property as an essential element in establishing a conversion claim. 2. Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Intangible Property Conversion: This specific instruction focuses on conversion involving intangible property, such as intellectual property rights, contracts, or financial assets. It educates the jury about how intangible property can be subject to conversion, emphasizing the need for unauthorized control and adverse interference with the property in question. 3. Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion of Motor Vehicles: This instruction presents a separate definition for conversion cases involving motor vehicles. It explains the unique aspects of motor vehicle conversions, including the defendant's unauthorized possession, control, or transfer of the vehicle, and the deprivation of the owner's possessor rights. 4. Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion of Livestock: This instruction deals specifically with conversion cases involving livestock or animals kept for commercial purposes. It outlines the elements required to establish a conversion claim related to livestock, such as the intent to exercise dominion or control over the animals without the owner's consent. 5. Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion of Chattels: This instruction addresses conversion cases pertaining to chattels, which are generally moveable personal property. It discusses the essential elements of a chattels' conversion claim, including the defendant's intentional interference with the owner's possessor rights and the resulting deprivation of the owner's ability to enjoy or use the property. These are some various types of Connecticut Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion. It is crucial for the judge to select and provide the appropriate instruction based on the specific circumstances and nature of the conversion claim being litigated.
