Torts - Intentional Torts #4-6: Trespass to Property

Trespass to land elements — A D’s . . .

1. volitional act done with the

2. intent to enter or remain; or failure to leave

3. land in another’s present possession resulting in an

4. intrusion or invasion

No (1)_______ actually needs to be done to the land for a tortfeasor to be held (2)_______ for trespass to land.

1. harm

2. liable

Pollution rule for trespass to land

P must demonstrate some kind of actual harm if he is suing for trespass to land as a result of pollution.

Trespass to chattel elements — A D’s . . .

1. volitional act done with the

2. intent to

3. dispossess, use, or intermeddle with

4. chattel that is in P’s rightful possession

Intermeddling definition

Any touching

In order for D to be held liable for trespass to chattel, 2 things must be true:

1. All of the elements for trespass to chattel must be met; AND

2. P must suffer from damage, dispossession, substantial deprivation of use, diminished value, or bodily harm to his chattel.

Conversion elements — A D’s . . .

1. volitional act done with the

2. intent to exercise dominion or control over the chattel that

3. causes

4. serious interference with the right of another

What factors determine whether something is a “serious interference” necessary to prove conversion?

• Extent and duration of D’s dominion and control

• D’s intent to assert a right adverse to P’s

• D’s good faith

• Harm done to the chattel

• Inconvenience and expense caused to P

Significance of the Pearson case

Conversion only applies to physical or otherwise tangible property, not any intellectual contents.