What is Civil Conspiracy?

What is civil conspiracy in personal injury law?

Civil conspiracy occurs when two or more people agree to commit an unlawful act — or a lawful act by unlawful means — that results in harm to someone. In personal injury cases, it often involves coordinated actions to conceal negligence, defraud a victim, or obstruct justice.

• Agreement between two or more people.

   

• Goal is unlawful conduct or unlawful means.

   

• Must cause harm to a victim.

   

• Can arise in varied personal injury contexts.

   

What elements must be proven for civil conspiracy?

While specifics vary by state, plaintiffs generally must show:
(1) an agreement between the defendants,
(2) an intent to commit an unlawful act,
(3) an act in furtherance of the conspiracy, and
(4) resulting damages.

• Agreement between parties.

   

• Intent to commit wrongful act.

   

• Action taken to advance conspiracy.

   

• Harm to the plaintiff.

   

How does civil conspiracy relate to personal injury claims?

It may appear when parties coordinate to hide evidence, lie about accident details, or engage in fraudulent billing for medical services. The conspiracy itself becomes an additional cause of action alongside the underlying claim.

• Can involve cover-ups of negligence.

   

• May include false statements about an accident.

   

• Can relate to insurance fraud.

   

• Adds another legal claim for damages.

   

What are the consequences of civil conspiracy?

Defendants found liable for civil conspiracy can be held jointly and severally responsible for all damages caused by the conspiracy. This means each conspirator may be required to pay the full amount.

• Joint liability for all damages.

   

• Potential for punitive damages.

   

• Can expand scope of liability.

   

• Increases legal consequences.

   

Conclusion:
Civil conspiracy can turn an ordinary injury case into a complex legal battle by adding a claim based on coordinated wrongful conduct.