Opinion ID: 1577849
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 711

Heading: introduction

Text: There is an additional claim in this case that you must decide. If you find for (claimant) and against (defendant(s)), you must decide whether, in addition to compensatory damages, punitive damages are warranted as punishment to [one or more of] (defendant(s)) and as a deterrent to others. The trial of the punitive damages issue is divided into two parts. In this first part, you will decide whether the conduct of (defendant or individual whose conduct may warrant punitive damages) is such that punitive damages are warranted. If you decide that punitive damages are warranted, we will proceed to the second part of that issue during which the parties may present additional evidence and argument on the issue of punitive damages. I will then give you additional instructions, after which you will decide whether, in your discretion, punitive damages will be assessed and, if so, the amount. Punitive damages are warranted if you find by clear and convincing evidence that: (1). the conduct causing [loss] [injury] [or] [damage] to (claimant) was so gross and flagrant as to show a reckless disregard of human life or of the safety of persons exposed to the effects of such conduct; or (2). the conduct showed such an entire lack of care that (defendant) must have been consciously indifferent to the consequences; or (3). the conduct showed such an entire lack of care that (defendant) must have wantonly or recklessly disregarded the safety and welfare of the public; or (4). the conduct showed such reckless indifference to the rights of others as to be equivalent to an intentional violation of those rights. [You may determine that punitive damages are warranted against one defendant and not the other[s] or against more than one defendant.] Clear and convincing evidence differs from the greater weight of the evidence in that it is more compelling and persuasive. As I have already instructed you, greater weight of the evidence means the more persuasive and convincing force and effect of the entire evidence in the case. In contrast, clear and convincing evidence is evidence that is precise, explicit, lacking in confusion, and of such weight that it produces a firm belief or conviction, without hesitation, about the matter in issue.