New Mexico Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary as Alter Ego of Parent Corporation serves as a guideline for courts in New Mexico when considering a situation where a subsidiary corporation can be viewed as the alter ego of its parent corporation. This instruction allows judges to provide clear directions to the jury, ensuring a fair and consistent approach to such cases. Keywords: New Mexico, jury instruction, subsidiary, alter ego, parent corporation In some cases, a parent corporation and its subsidiary may have such a close relationship that they essentially function as a single entity. When this is the case, the law allows for the subsidiary corporation to be treated as the alter ego of its parent corporation. This instruction assists the jury in determining whether the subsidiary can be held liable for the acts or debts of its parent corporation. Types of New Mexico Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary As Alter Ego Of Parent Corporation: 1. Determining Alter Ego Relationship: This type of instruction focuses on establishing the existence of an alter ego relationship between the parent corporation and its subsidiary. The jury is guided on key factors that may indicate such a relationship, including commingling of funds, inadequate capitalization, and identical shareholder control. 2. Piercing the Corporate Veil: In some instances, the jury may need guidance on the concept of piercing the corporate veil. This instruction provides jurors with the criteria to disregard the separate legal existence of the subsidiary and hold the parent corporation directly liable for its actions or debts. 3. Liability Assessment: Once the subsidiary is deemed to be the alter ego of its parent, this instruction helps the jury determine the extent of liability that can be imposed. Depending on the circumstances, the jury may decide to hold the parent corporation wholly responsible or only partially liable for the subsidiary's actions. 4. Exceptions and Defenses: In cases involving an alter ego relationship, various exceptions and defenses may arise. This instruction educates the jury on potential exceptions, such as fraudulent misrepresentation, and defenses, including the corporate shield doctrine, that may affect the liability assessment. Overall, New Mexico Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary As Alter Ego Of Parent Corporation ensures consistent and fair treatment in cases where a subsidiary corporation is under scrutiny for being the alter ego of its parent. By providing clear guidance on determining the relationship, piercing the corporate veil, assessing liability, and acknowledging exceptions/defenses, this instruction aids the jury in making well-informed decisions within the legal framework of New Mexico.