An Act Increasing The Counsel Fees Penalty For Filing An Unreasonable And Untrue Pleading In A Civil Action.
Impact
If enacted, this bill would directly impact the operational framework of civil litigation by imposing stricter financial consequences on those who file untrue or unreasonable pleadings. The increase in penalties is intended to align with the provisions stated in the Connecticut Practice Book, thereby enhancing the integrity of the judicial system. By creating a more substantial deterrent against frivolous lawsuits, the bill could lead to a reduction in the number of unmeritorious cases brought to court, potentially lightening the burden on judicial resources.
Summary
House Bill 05124 proposes an amendment to section 52-99 of the general statutes, which concerns the penalties associated with filing unreasonable and untrue pleadings in civil actions. The core objective of this bill is to increase the financial penalties that courts can impose on parties who engage in such practices. Specifically, the bill seeks to raise the penalty from a nominal ten dollars to five hundred dollars, reflecting a significant adjustment aimed at deterring frivolous lawsuits and promoting responsible legal conduct.
Contention
The introduction of this bill may elicit debate among lawmakers and legal experts regarding the balance between ensuring access to the courts and imposing penalties that some may view as excessively punitive. Supporters of the bill argue that the current penalty is too low to effectively dissuade parties from filing unreasonable claims. In contrast, opponents might contend that raising the penalty could discourage legitimate claims that may be misconstrued as unreasonable, thereby restricting access to justice for those with valid grievances.