Rhode Island Jury Instruction — Possession: In Rhode Island, jury instructions play a vital role in helping the jury understand the law and apply it to the specific case at hand. One important jury instruction that often arises in criminal cases is regarding possession. Possession is a fundamental legal concept that defines a person's control or ownership over an object or substance. This instruction helps the jury determine whether the defendant had actual or constructive possession of the item in question, which is crucial for establishing guilt or innocence. Keywords: Rhode Island, jury instruction, possession, criminal cases, legal concept, control, ownership, actual possession, constructive possession, guilt, innocence. Different types of Rhode Island Jury Instruction — Possession: 1. Actual Possession Instruction: This type of jury instruction is given when the defendant had physical control or immediate physical possession of the object or substance in question. It clarifies that the defendant had physical access and dominion over the item at the time of the alleged offense. 2. Constructive Possession Instruction: This instruction is provided when the defendant did not have physical possession of the item but had the power and intention to control it. It explains that constructive possession focuses on the defendant's control over the object, even if it is not physically on their person. 3. Joint Possession Instruction: In certain cases, multiple individuals may jointly possess an item or substance. This instruction helps the jury understand that when two or more people exercise control and dominion over an item together, they can be considered jointly responsible for its possession. 4. Temporary Possession Instruction: Sometimes, a defendant may be accused of possessing an item for a brief or temporary period. This instruction guides the jury in evaluating the circumstances of the possession and determining whether it was indeed temporary or more permanent in nature. 5. Presumption of Possession Instruction: In specific situations, the law may establish a presumption that if a person is found in a certain location or environment, they are presumed to possess certain items associated with that area. This instruction informs the jury about such legal presumptions and how they may affect the burden of proof required to establish possession. These different types of Rhode Island Jury Instruction — Possession help the jury navigate the complexities of possession-related charges, enabling them to make a fair and informed determination regarding the defendant's guilt or innocence.