Connecticut § 35-53 - Damages. Punitive damages for wilful and malicious misappropriation.
Full text of Connecticut Connecticut General Statutes § 35-53 — Damages. Punitive damages for wilful and malicious misappropriation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 35-53. Damages. Punitive damages for wilful and malicious misappropriation.
Sec. 35-53. Damages. Punitive damages for wilful and malicious misappropriation. (a) In addition to or in lieu of injunctive relief, a complainant may recover damages for the actual loss caused by misappropriation. A complainant also may recover for the unjust enrichment caused by misappropriation that is not taken into account in computing damages for actual loss.
(b) In any action brought pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, if the court finds wilful and malicious misappropriation, the court may award punitive damages in an amount not exceeding twice any award made under subsection (a) and may award reasonable attorney's fees to the prevailing party.
(P.A. 83-344, S. 4.)
Subsec. (b):
Trial court's finding of willful and malicious misappropriation was supported by the record and trial court did not abuse its discretion in awarding punitive damages and attorneys' fees. 251 C. 59. Trial court did not abuse its discretion in awarding $40,000 in punitive damages, inasmuch as award did not exceed twice the amount of the award of compensatory damages. 267 C. 456. Since defendant's attempted takeover of plaintiff employer was not intended to injure the shareholder owners of a trade secret and did not constitute a malicious violation of Uniform Trade Secrets Act, plaintiff was not entitled to punitive damages and attorneys fees. 282 C. 209.
Source: official Connecticut text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut § 35-53
What does Connecticut General Statutes § 35-53 cover?
Section 35-53 ("Damages. Punitive damages for wilful and malicious misappropriation.") is part of the Connecticut General Statutes, the codified statutory law of Connecticut. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Connecticut § 35-53?
A common citation format is "Connecticut General Statutes § 35-53" (Connecticut). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Connecticut law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Connecticut official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Connecticut attorney.
How does Connecticut § 35-53 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Connecticut can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut.