Iowa Jury Instruction — Possession: The Iowa Jury Instruction on Possession is a set of instructions provided to jurors in Iowa criminal trials to help them understand the legal concept of possession and its various elements. Possession, in legal terms, refers to having control, custody, or the ability to control an object or substance. The jury instruction on possession aims to guide jurors in determining whether a defendant in a criminal case had actual or constructive possession of an item or substance at the time of the alleged offense. It helps establish the defendant's control or dominion over the object in question, which is often a crucial element in many criminal cases. Different Types of Iowa Jury Instruction — Possession: 1. Actual Possession: This type of possession occurs when a person has direct physical control or immediate physical possession over an object or substance. For example, if a defendant is found with drugs in their hand or pocket, it would be considered actual possession. 2. Constructive Possession: Unlike actual possession, constructive possession refers to the ability to exercise control over an object or substance, even if it is not physically on the defendant's person. This type of possession can be established by evidence demonstrating that the defendant had knowledge of the item's presence, the ability to access or control it, and the intention to exercise dominion and control over it. For instance, if drugs are found in a defendant's vehicle, and the defendant has exclusive access to the vehicle, constructive possession may be claimed. 3. Joint Possession: Joint possession occurs when multiple individuals share control or dominion over an object or substance. In such cases, each person may be held equally responsible for the possession. For instance, if drugs are found in a shared living space where multiple individuals have access and control, joint possession may be alleged. 4. Knowing Possession: Knowing possession refers to possessing an object or substance with knowledge of its nature or characteristics. It requires the prosecution to prove that the defendant both possessed the item and knew that they were in possession of it. This type of possession is often relevant to charges involving illegal drugs, firearms, or stolen property. 5. Unlawful Possession: Unlawful possession describes possessing an object or substance that is prohibited by law. It pertains to situations where the defendant is in possession of an item that they are not legally entitled to possess, such as illegal drugs, stolen items, or firearms without proper licenses. In summary, the Iowa Jury Instruction on Possession addresses different aspects and types of possession that may arise in criminal cases, such as actual possession, constructive possession, joint possession, knowing possession, and unlawful possession. Jurors are instructed to consider various factors and evidence to determine whether a defendant had control or dominion over the item or substance in question.