Punitive Damages Reform: (1987): Ala. Code § 6-11-20. - ATRA

Punitive Damages Reform: (1987): Ala. Code § 6-11-20.

| November 6, 2016

Requires a plaintiff to show by “clear and convincing” evidence

Requires a plaintiff to show by “clear and convincing” evidence that a defendant acted with “wanton” conduct for the recovery of punitive damages. Limits the award of punitive damages to $250,000. The statute setting a $250,000 limit on punitive damages awards violated the right to jury trial under the State Constitution. Henderson v. Alabama Power Co., 627 So. 2d 878 (Ala. 1993). Requires trial and appellate judges to review all punitive damages awards and reduce those that are excessive based on the facts of the case. The Alabama Supreme Court held the judicial review of all awards unconstitutional in Armstrong v. Roger’s Outdoor Sports, Inc., May 10, 1991.

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