Connecticut House Bill HB06616

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/17/11
• Refer: 3/17/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Evidentiary Standard For Punitive Damage Awards.

Impact

The implementation of HB 6616 is poised to impact various statutes that currently allow for the award of punitive damages. By requiring a higher threshold of proof, the bill may limit the number of cases in which punitive damages can be successfully claimed. Advocates for this bill assert that it could deter frivolous lawsuits, encourage responsible behavior by individuals and entities, and ultimately lead to a more predictable legal landscape regarding punitive damages.

Summary

House Bill 6616, titled 'An Act Concerning The Evidentiary Standard For Punitive Damage Awards', seeks to modify the evidentiary criteria required to recover punitive damages in civil lawsuits. The bill stipulates that plaintiffs must meet a 'clear and convincing evidence' standard to establish that a defendant acted with wanton misconduct or with malicious intent in order to be eligible for punitive damages. This change aims to refine the legal framework governing punitive damages, making it potentially more challenging for plaintiffs to secure such awards in court proceedings.

Contention

Critics of the bill argue that raising the burden of proof for punitive damages could disadvantage victims of egregious conduct who rely on such awards for fair compensation. Concerns have been raised about the potential imbalance it may create in the justice system, disproportionately affecting plaintiffs who may already face challenges in pursuing civil actions. The debate over HB 6616 also brings into question the broader implications of such evidentiary standards on accountability and deterrence within various sectors.