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. Proof of demand and refusal is not essential to the maintenance of an action for conversion when the conversion is otherwise established.
Vermont Instruction to Jury as to When Demand is not Necessary in Constituting Conversion: In Vermont, when plaintiff is alleging conversion, it is essential to understand when a demand is not necessary to consider the claim. Conversion refers to the act of wrongfully depriving someone of their property, either by taking it or interfering with their ownership rights. There are several instances in which a demand is not needed to establish conversion in Vermont. These include: 1. Wrongful Use: If an individual wrongfully uses someone else's property without permission, it can be considered conversion. The owner does not need to make a specific demand for the return of the property. 2. Negligence: If someone's negligence results in the loss or damage to another person's property, it can be considered conversion. In such cases, the injured party can file a conversion claim without prior demand. 3. Dissipation of Property or Alteration: When someone alters or dissipates the value of another's property, it can be deemed conversion without the need for a prior demand. This could include selling, destroying, or significantly diminishing the value of the property. 4. Unauthorized Transfer: If someone transfers or sells someone else's property without permission, it can be seen as conversion. Plaintiffs can pursue a conversion claim without making a demand for the return of the property. 5. Absolute Denial of Rights: If the defendant explicitly denies the plaintiff's ownership or possession rights over the property, no demand is necessary to establish conversion. These different scenarios highlight when a demand is not necessary in constituting conversion in Vermont. It is important for the jury to understand these nuances while evaluating a conversion claim to make a fair and informed decision. By being aware of these Vermont instructions, the jury can determine whether the defendant's actions fall within the scope of conversion without emphasizing the need for a prior demand. This knowledge ensures a thorough analysis of the case and provides clarity regarding the plaintiff's rights and the defendant's liability. In summary, when it comes to Vermont Instruction to Jury as to When Demand is not Necessary in Constituting Conversion, the jury needs to be informed about the various situations where a demand is not required. By recognizing these circumstances, the jury can better assess the plaintiff's claims and make an informed decision.