South Dakota Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary As Alter Ego Of Parent Corporation: This jury instruction pertains to a legal concept known as "alter ego," specifically in relation to a parent corporation and its subsidiary in the state of South Dakota. It is used to guide the jury in assessing whether the subsidiary should be treated as the alter ego of its parent company for legal purposes. Here is a detailed description of this jury instruction: Introduction: The South Dakota Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary As Alter Ego Of Parent Corporation serves as a guideline for jurors in cases where a subsidiary corporation is being accused of being the alter ego of its parent company. The jury instruction helps clarify the legal parameters that define an alter ego relationship and provides guidance on how to evaluate the evidence presented during the trial. Key Concepts: 1. Alter Ego: The concept of alter ego refers to a legal theory where a court disregards the separate legal existence of a subsidiary or affiliated corporation and treats it as an extension of its parent company. This doctrine is employed when it is established that the subsidiary is being used as a mere instrumentality or alter ego of the parent, resulting in unfairness or injustice to third parties. 2. Subsidiary As Alter Ego: Under this instruction, the jury is directed to determine whether the subsidiary corporation should be treated as the alter ego of its parent organization. It requires the jury to assess the specific factors and circumstances of the case to establish if the subsidiary lacks the necessary autonomy and independence to be recognized as a separate legal entity. Types of South Dakota Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary As Alter Ego Of Parent Corporation: While there might not be distinct types of this specific jury instruction, it can be applied in various legal contexts, including: 1. Commercial Law: This instruction can be applicable in cases involving breach of contract, where the plaintiff argues that the subsidiary corporation should be held liable for the contractual obligations of its parent company due to an altar ego relationship. 2. Tort Law: In situations where a subsidiary is used to shield the parent company from liability for tortious acts or to fraudulently transfer assets, this instruction can be introduced to examine whether the subsidiary should be treated as the alter ego of the parent for the purpose of imposing liability. 3. Piercing the Corporate Veil: This jury instruction is closely associated with the legal doctrine "piercing the corporate veil." It is invoked when the plaintiff seeks to disregard the separate legal identity of the subsidiary corporation and hold the parent corporation accountable for the subsidiary's actions or liabilities. Conclusion: The South Dakota Jury Instruction — 1.9.5.2 Subsidiary As Alter Ego Of Parent Corporation is a valuable tool that assists juries in comprehending the legal framework surrounding the alter ego doctrine related to parent-subsidiary relationships. By carefully analyzing the evidence and considering relevant factors, the jury can determine whether the subsidiary corporation should be treated as the alter ego of its parent, potentially leading to legal ramifications for both entities involved.