Order No. 10720 of 2024: Injunctive Relief and Remedies under Article 2043 of the Civil Code

The recent order No. 10720 of April 22, 2024, from the Court of Cassation highlights fundamental aspects regarding injunctive relief in the context of damage compensation. The ruling, issued by President G. T. and Rapporteur E. I., overturned a decision from the Court of Appeal of Turin, drawing attention to Articles 2043 and 2058 of the Italian Civil Code.

The Case at Hand

In this specific case, the appellant, a concessionaire of three downhill slopes, had requested an injunction against a defendant who was using the slopes without authorization. The Court of Appeal had rejected the request, arguing that the plaintiff's waiver of certain claims also implied a waiver of the injunctive relief. However, the Court of Cassation found this interpretation to be incorrect.

The Ruling’s Principle

Injunctive relief - Connection to the remedies provided by Article 2043 of the Civil Code - Basis - Specific case. Injunctive relief falls among the remedies provided by Article 2043 of the Civil Code, being linked to the specific restoration provided for in Article 2058 of the Civil Code. (In this case, the Supreme Court overturned the decision of the Court of Appeal that had rejected the request made by a concessionaire of three downhill slopes, aimed at obtaining an order for the defendant not to use the said slopes, mistakenly believing that the party's waiver of claims related to the provisions of Articles 2598 et seq. of the Civil Code, but not to those made under Article 2043 of the Civil Code, also implied a waiver of the injunctive relief).

The Court clarified that injunctive relief is a remedy provided by Article 2043 of the Civil Code, which establishes that anyone who commits an unlawful act is obliged to compensate for the damage caused. In this context, the specific restoration referred to in Article 2058 of the Civil Code is fundamental to ensure the protection of the concessionaire's rights.

The Implications of the Ruling

This order opens important reflections regarding the nature of rights and the legal remedies available to concessionaires and, more generally, to anyone who suffers damage from unlawful acts. Here are some key points:

  • Injunctive relief is an effective remedy for protecting property rights.
  • The waiver of certain claims does not automatically imply a waiver of the injunctive relief.
  • The Court of Cassation emphasizes the importance of a correct interpretation of civil norms to ensure fair justice.

Conclusions

Order No. 10720 of 2024 represents an important landmark in the field of damage compensation and injunctive relief. The ruling not only reaffirms the value of property rights but also provides fundamental clarifications on the distinction between the various forms of protection provided by our legal system. It is crucial that the parties involved in similar disputes understand the legal implications of their actions and waivers to avoid compromising their rights.

Bianucci Law Firm