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.
Maryland Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion is a set of guidelines provided to juries in Maryland courts to understand the legal definition and elements of conversion, a tort related to the wrongful exercise of control over someone else's property. Conversion occurs when someone intentionally exercises dominion or control over another person's property without lawful justification, depriving the owner of their right to possess or enjoy the property. The purpose of the Maryland Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion is to assist the jury in determining whether the defendant's actions meet the legal requirements for a conversion claim. It ensures that the jury understands the key elements that need to be proven by the plaintiff to establish their case. There are several types of Maryland Instructions to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion, which may be used depending on the specific circumstances of the case. These instructions elaborate on various aspects of the conversion claim, such as: 1. Elements of Conversion: This instruction outlines the essential elements that a plaintiff must establish to prove conversion, including intentional exercise of control, over someone else's property, without lawful justification, resulting in the deprivation of the owner's rights. 2. Wrongful Act: This instruction explains that the defendant's act of exerting control over the property must be wrongful. It may highlight situations where the defendant's actions were without the owner's consent or violated a legal duty. 3. Lawful Justification: This instruction clarifies that if the defendant had a valid legal justification for their actions, such as a right conferred by a contract or law, it may negate the conversion claim. 4. Intent: This instruction emphasizes the importance of the defendant's intent, stating that the defendant must have intentionally exercised control over the property, intending to interfere with the owner's rights. 5. Damages: This instruction provides guidance on the types of damages that may be awarded in a conversion case, such as the value of the converted property, any related economic losses, and potentially punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was particularly egregious. 6. Defenses: This instruction informs the jury about potential defenses that the defendant may raise, such as consent from the owner, the absence of control or possession by the plaintiff, or the bona fide purchaser defense. It is crucial for the jury to carefully consider the Maryland Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion as it guides them in making an accurate and fair decision based on the legal principles governing the conversion claim. Following these instructions ensures consistency and fairness in the application of the law.
