An executor has a fiduciary duty to always act in the best interest of the estate. This means that if an executor does not act in the best interest of the estate, they may be subject to court intervention and penalties for a breach of their fiduciary duty.
Breach of fiduciary duty claims are complex, and the proof necessary to win a lawsuit is often not readily apparent or available. These claims can take a lot of time and investigative work to prove. If your claim does not settle, the litigation that ensues can be lengthy and convoluted.
If the board of directors or individual board members have breached a fiduciary duty to the shareholders, the shareholders can bring a lawsuit to protect their interests.
A claim that someone has breached a fiduciary duty involves allegations that the fiduciary has contravened reasonable expectations of loyalty and faithfulness. Remedies for such a breach lie in equity, not the common law.
Plaintiffs who have sustained a personal noneconomic injury may sue for breach of fiduciary duty. Examples include emotional distress and even imprisonment (for example, resulting from attorney malpractice).
The party harmed by the breach of fiduciary duty might pursue a lawsuit against the breaching party for damages suffered due to the breach. Damages sought in a breach of fiduciary duty lawsuit can include financial damages, equitable damages and exemplary damages.
The concept of punitive or exemplary damages is well accepted among common lawyers. Where a tortfeasor's conduct is sufficiently blameworthy as to warrant punishment, a court may, in its discretion, award additional damages 'to punish the defendant and vindicate the strength of the law.
Seeking Monetary Damages Monetary compensation is a key factor in many fiduciary duty cases. If your partner's actions—or lack thereof—have caused you financial harm, the court may require them to compensate you, offering a path to resolving the dispute.
Penalties for such breaches can be severe, including compensatory damages, punitive damages and legal costs. In some cases, the fiduciary may also face professional disciplinary actions or criminal prosecution.
What Damages Are Available In Fiduciary Breach Cases? Unpaid benefits, Monetary damages, Lost profits, Unnecessary losses, Punitive damages, Any illicit gains made by the fiduciary, and. Other economic harms experienced by the victim.