Maricopa Arizona Jury Instruction — Possession is a legal guideline that provides instructions to jurors during a criminal trial regarding the concept of possession and its implications in the Maricopa, Arizona jurisdiction. Understanding this instruction is crucial for jurors to apply the appropriate legal standards when determining the guilt or innocence of the accused individual. There are various types of Maricopa Arizona Jury Instructions — Possession that cater to different scenarios and charges. Some common types include: 1. Actual Possession: This instruction defines actual possession as having physical control or immediate access to the illegal item or substance in question. Jurors are instructed to evaluate whether the defendant had direct physical dominion over the item, such as holding, carrying, or storing it on their person. 2. Constructive Possession: This instruction deals with cases where the defendant does not have direct physical control but has the intent and ability to exercise control over the illegal item or substance. For example, if the illegal item is found in a space or property under the defendant's control, they can be deemed to have constructive possession. 3. Joint Possession: This instruction applies when multiple individuals share control or ownership over the illegal item or substance. It emphasizes that all individuals involved can be considered in possession and shares the responsibility for the alleged criminal act. 4. Knowledge and Control: This instruction explains that to establish possession, the prosecution must prove that the defendant had knowledge of the presence of the illegal item or substance and had the ability to exercise control over it. Jurors are instructed to evaluate the evidence presented to determine if the defendant was aware of the item and intentionally possessed it. 5. Temporary Possession: In certain cases, an instruction related to temporary possession is used. It acknowledges situations where the defendant had control over the illegal item or substance for a limited period or brief moment. Jurors are instructed to consider the circumstances and evaluate whether the temporary possession was intentional, knowing, or consistent with the alleged crime. These different types of Maricopa Arizona Jury Instructions — Possession help to guide jurors in understanding the nuances of possession charges and support them in making an informed decision based on the evidence presented during the trial.