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.
Washington Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion is a set of instructions provided by the court in Washington State to educate the jury about the legal definition and elements of conversion in a civil lawsuit. Conversion refers to an action or conduct that unlawfully deprives another person of their personal property or interferes with their right to possess it. These instructions outline the key components necessary to establish a claim of conversion, helping the jury understand the legal standards involved. The Washington Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion includes several key points for the jury members to consider: 1. Definition of Conversion: This instruction presents the definition of conversion, explaining that it occurs when someone intentionally engages in an act or behavior that substantially interferes with the legal right of another person to possess and control their chattel (movable property). 2. Intentional Act: The instruction emphasizes that conversion requires a deliberate and intentional act on the part of the defendant, demonstrating that they knowingly and purposefully exerted control over the plaintiff's property without lawful authorization. 3. Substantial Interference: The instruction clarifies that the defendant's actions must substantially interfere with the plaintiff's possessor rights. This means that the interference must be significant enough to deprive the plaintiff of their right to use, possess, or control the property. 4. Rightful Ownership: The jury is instructed to determine whether the plaintiff had a lawful ownership or right to possess the property in question. If the plaintiff cannot establish their rightful ownership, the claim of conversion may fail. 5. Damages: Instructions also explain that for a successful conversion claim, the plaintiff must prove that they suffered actual damages as a result of the defendant's conduct. These damages could include the loss of value, the cost to replace the property, or any other harm suffered. It's important to note that the specific instructions for Washington Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion may vary depending on the jurisdiction and nature of the case. Other considerations might include factors such as the good faith defense, burden of proof, or the availability of punitive damages. Overall, Washington Instruction to Jury as to the Definition of Conversion guides the jury in understanding the legal elements necessary to establish a claim of conversion, ensuring a fair and informed verdict.
