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.
New Jersey Instruction to Jury as to Evidence of Conversion is a crucial legal document designed to guide jurors in understanding and evaluating evidence related to the act of conversion. Conversion refers to the wrongful exercise of ownership rights over someone else's property, depriving the owner of its possession or interfering with their right to control it. In cases where conversion is alleged, the judge issues specific instructions to the jury to assist them in making an informed decision based on the presented evidence. There are different types of New Jersey Instructions to Jury as to Evidence of Conversion that may be given depending on the circumstances of the case. Some of these instructions include: 1. "Definition of Conversion": This instruction clarifies the concept of conversion to the jury, explaining that it involves the exertion of control over another person's property without lawful justification, often leading to interference with the owner's rights. 2. "Elements of Conversion": This instruction outlines the essential elements that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to establish conversion. It typically includes the requirement of defendant's intentional and wrongful exercise of control over the plaintiff's property, the plaintiff's right to possession, and resultant damages suffered by the plaintiff. 3. "Ownership and Possession": This instruction emphasizes the importance of ownership and possession in a conversion claim. It guides the jury to consider evidence supporting the plaintiff's rightful ownership and lawful possession of the property that has allegedly been converted. 4. "Good Faith and Justification": Depending on the facts of the case, this instruction may be given to provide guidance on the defense of good faith or lawful justification for the defendant's actions. It helps the jury consider evidence of the defendant's intent, belief, or justification for the control exerted over the property in question. 5. "Measure of Damages": This instruction focuses on how the jury should calculate damages if they find in favor of the plaintiff. It explains the different factors to consider, such as the property's fair market value, any loss of use, and potential consequential damages, among others. These varied instructions play a crucial role in ensuring that jurors have a clear understanding of what constitutes conversion and what evidence they should evaluate when making their decision. They provide a framework for the jury to carefully consider the evidence presented, follow the relevant legal standards, and reach a just verdict.
