Texas Supreme Court

Arthur E. King v. J. D. McGuff

November 15, 1950149 Tex. 432

Summary

The Texas Supreme Court reversed the Court of Civil Appeals and reformed the trial court judgment, denying exemplary damages to the master and allowing interest on the loss of market value instead of rental value damages. The Court held that liability for punitive damages requires a jury finding of authorization, ratification, or reckless employment, which was absent. It also clarified the proper measure for loss of use damages.