If you’ve been seriously injured due to someone else’s reckless actions, you may be entitled to more than just compensation for your medical bills and lost wages. In some cases, Texas law allows for exemplary damages (also called punitive damages). This form of damages is designed to punish the liable party and deter similar misconduct in the future.
But here’s something many injury victims don’t realize: A wealthy defendant might not feel the impact of a small punitive damages award, just like a billionaire wouldn’t blink at a $100 fine. That’s why Texas law allows injury victims to request information about the defendant’s net worth—because holding someone accountable should mean something, no matter how deep their pockets are.
What is net worth discovery?
If you’re asking for punitive damages in a Texas personal injury case, you may have the right to find out how much the defendant is actually worth. This process—called net worth discovery—helps make sure that a wealthy individual or company can’t escape meaningful consequences just because a typical punitive damages award wouldn’t affect them.
For example, imagine you were injured in a car crash caused by a reckless driver who was speeding through a neighborhood. If that driver is a multimillionaire, a small financial penalty won’t do much to deter them from dangerous behavior in the future. But if their financial situation is taken into account, the court can impose a penalty that truly holds them accountable. Both the driver and others who hear of the penalty will be more likely to think twice before deciding to endanger others’ lives again.
How can an injury victim obtain net worth information?
Under Texas law, you can’t automatically demand to see a defendant’s financial records. First, you and your legal team must show that you have a substantial likelihood of success in your claim for punitive damages. This means presenting solid evidence that the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless, negligent, or intentional.
If the court agrees, the defendant may be required to turn over financial documents, such as:
- Audited balance sheets (if available)
- Tax returns with supporting financial disclosures
- Sworn statements listing assets and liabilities
- Deposition testimony about financial status
Your attorney will use this information to argue for a punitive damages award that actually serves its purpose: punishing wrongdoing and preventing similar harm in the future.
When is net worth discovery important?
Net worth discovery isn’t necessary in every case, but it can be a crucial step when the defendant’s actions were especially egregious. Here are some examples where it may be important:
- Drunk driving accidents. If a wealthy person repeatedly drives drunk and causes harm, punitive damages can help prevent future reckless behavior.
- Corporate negligence. If a large company ignores safety standards or supplies a defective product, leading to serious injuries, their net worth may determine the appropriate level of punishment.
- Intentional harm cases. If someone deliberately injures another person, punitive damages should be significant enough to make a real impact.
A real-world example of net worth discovery and punitive damages
Let’s consider an unfortunately all too common case: a person being severely injured in a dog attack. The owner knew their dog was dangerous—the animal had bitten people before—but they refused to take proper precautions.
In pursuing such a case, our legal team would seek strong evidence of gross negligence, leading the court to allow net worth discovery. We would then investigate financial records to prove whether the defendant had the ability to pay significant punitive damages.
Because of this process, the victim can receive a much larger award, ensuring they have the resources needed for medical treatment and long-term care. The case can also set an important example that irresponsible pet owners must take responsibility for their actions.
How Crosley Law can help you seek justice
At Crosley Law, we know that simply winning a case isn’t enough—you need fair compensation that truly reflects the harm you’ve suffered. That’s why we investigate every angle of a case, including whether punitive damages (and net worth discovery) could play a role in maximizing your recovery.
Our experienced team handles the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s recklessness, you deserve justice. Let us help.
Contact us for a free consultation
If you believe your injury case may involve punitive damages, reach out to Crosley Law today. We’ll evaluate your case, explain your options, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Call us at (210) 529-3000 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation today.
Your case matters. Your recovery matters. And we’re here to help you every step of the way.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject.
