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.
Title: Puerto Rico Instruction to Jury Regarding Goods Wrongfully Taken From Plaintiff as Conversion Introduction: In legal terms, conversion refers to the intentional and wrongful exercise of control over another person's property, depriving the rightful owner of its possession and use. This article provides a detailed description of Puerto Rico's instructions to a jury regarding the law of conversion, specifying the juror's responsibilities in evaluating such cases. Additionally, it explores different types of conversion claims that may arise in Puerto Rico. 1. Elements of Conversion: The jury must understand the key elements that constitute a conversion claim in Puerto Rico. These elements typically include (but are not limited to) intentional interference, wrongful possession, ownership or right to possession by the plaintiff, and causation. Jurors are instructed to examine evidence and determine if these elements are met in a given case. 2. Understand the Burden of Proof: Jurors must comprehend the burden of proof placed upon the plaintiff, who must demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that conversion occurred. The jury is directed to carefully assess the presented evidence and determine its credibility and weight. 3. Evaluating Damages: Jurors are guided on assessing the damages applicable in a conversion case. The instructions emphasize that compensation aims to restore the plaintiff to the position they would have been in had the conversion not taken place. Various aspects, including financial losses, diminished value, and emotional distress, may be considered when calculating damages. 4. Conversion vs. Trespass: Jurors may encounter confusion between conversion and trespass claims. It is crucial to recognize the difference explicitly outlined in the instructions. While trespass involves unauthorized entry or interference with premises or land, conversion focuses on the deprivation of personal property rights. Types of Puerto Rico Instruction to Jury Regarding Goods Wrongfully Taken From Plaintiff as Conversion: a) Conversion of Tangible Property: This instruction addresses situations where physical objects such as personal belongings, vehicles, or equipment are wrongfully taken or withheld from the plaintiff. The jury is guided to analyze the evidence based on the established elements of conversion to determine liability and potential damages. b) Conversion of Intangible Property: This specific instruction instructs the jury on cases involving intangible property, including intellectual property, trade secrets, or digital assets. Understanding the intangible nature of these assets is vital for the jury to evaluate the wrongful exercise of control by the defendant and its impact on the plaintiff. c) Conversion of Financial Instruments: In cases involving conversion of financial instruments like checks, bonds, or stocks, the jury is provided with tailored instructions to assess the conversion claim. It covers matters such as fraudulent endorsement, unlawful transfer, or wrongful withholding, assisting the jury in analyzing the evidence presented. Conclusion: Puerto Rico's instruction to the jury regarding conversion cases involving wrongfully taken goods provides a framework to evaluate the evidence, understand the legal elements, and determine liability. By offering distinct instructions for various types of conversion claims, the Puerto Rican legal system ensures fair interpretation and application of the law in resolving these civil disputes.
