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Philadelphia Business Lawyers: Fraudulent Misrepresentation as a Basis for Punitive Damages

To establish fraudulent misrepresentation, a plaintiff must prove: (1) misrepresentation of a material fact; (2) scienter; (3) intention by the declarant to induce action; (4) justifiable reliance by the party defrauded upon the misrepresentation and (5) damage to the party defrauded as a proximate cause. Yenchi v. Ameriprise Fin., Inc., 2015 Pa. Super 195 (Sept. 15, 2015). Scienter, or the maker’s knowledge of the untrue character of his representation, is a key element in finding fraudulent misrepresentation. See Restatement (Second) of Torts § 526, comment a. Fraud must be proven by clear and convincing evidence. Weston v. Northampton Pers. Care, Inc., 62 A.3d 947, 960 (Pa. Super. 2013).

[A] cause of action for misrepresentation can support a claim for punitive damages. However:

Punitive damages will lie only in cases of outrageous behavior, where defendant’s egregious conduct shows either an evil motive or reckless indifference to the rights of others. Punitive damages are appropriate when an individual’s actions are of such an outrageous nature as to demonstrate intentional, willful, wanton, or reckless conduct.il

The Philadelphia Business Lawyers at the Law Firm of Sidkoff, Pincus & Green are Well Versed in all Areas of Business Litigation

The Philadelphia Business Lawyers at Sidkoff, Pincus & Green can help clients affected by fraudulent misrepresentation.  To speak to an experienced lawyer contact us online, or call 215-574-0600.