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.
Illinois Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion The Illinois Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion provides guidance to jurors on how to understand and apply the concept of conversion in civil cases. Conversion refers to the act of exercising control or dominion over another person's property without their permission or lawful authority. It is a civil wrong that enables the owner of the property to seek damages or recovery for the value of the property that has been wrongfully converted. Keywords: Illinois, instruction to jury, definition, conversion, civil cases, property, control, dominion, permission, lawful authority, damages, recovery, wrongfully converted. Types of Illinois Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion: 1. Basic Instruction: This instruction introduces jurors to the concept of conversion and provides a general understanding of the elements required to establish a claim for conversion. It may include explaining the necessity of control or dominion exercised over the property and the absence of lawful authority or permission from the owner. 2. Intent Instruction: This instruction delves into the mental state required for conversion. It explains that conversion requires intentional or knowing conduct on the part of the defendant and that a mere mistake or negligence is insufficient to establish liability for conversion. 3. Ownership Instruction: This instruction elaborates on the ownership rights required for a claim of conversion. It clarifies that the plaintiff must hold a legal ownership interest in the property that has been wrongfully converted, highlighting the importance of establishing ownership and possession. 4. Damages Instruction: This instruction informs the jurors about the types of damages that can be awarded in conversion cases. It may include compensatory damages for the value of the converted property, as well as any additional damages resulting from the conversion, such as loss of use or emotional distress. 5. Defenses Instruction: This instruction outlines potential defenses that the defendant may raise against a claim of conversion. It may include defenses such as the consent of the owner, the property being abandoned, or the defendant having a lawful justification for their actions. 6. Evidence Instruction: This instruction guides the jurors on how to evaluate the evidence presented during the trial. It explains that the plaintiff has the burden of proving each element of conversion by a preponderance of the evidence, and encourages the jurors to carefully consider the credibility and reliability of witness testimony and other relevant evidence. Each of these types of instructions plays a crucial role in helping jurors understand the elements, standards, and considerations involved in determining conversion claims within the context of Illinois law.
