Commentary on Judgment No. 196 of 2025: Change of Claim for Damages

The recent ruling of the Court of Appeal of Bari, No. 196 of January 7, 2025, addressed a crucial issue in the field of civil law: the possibility of changing the basis of liability in appeal proceedings, a matter that holds both practical and theoretical relevance for those dealing with compensation for damages. The Court established that, under certain conditions, it is possible to propose a different claim of liability than that originally formulated, without prejudicing the right of defense of the opposing party.

The Context of the Judgment

In the case examined, the initial claim was made pursuant to Article 2050 of the Civil Code, relating to damages caused by hazardous activities. However, in the appeal stage, the plaintiff intended to change the basis of liability by invoking Article 2051 of the Civil Code, which deals with liability for damage caused by things in custody. The Court analyzed whether such a change was admissible, considering civil procedural rules and the right to a fair trial.

In general. In the case of an initial claim for damages under Article 2050 of the Civil Code, the subsequent proposal, in the appeal court, even in the final briefs, of liability under Article 2051 of the Civil Code is admissible if the party has timely alleged, in the first instance, sufficiently clear and precise facts that could integrate that basis of liability, because the change of the basis of liability is admissible provided that the facts underlying the original claim have not been modified and the opposing party has therefore been able to defend itself and counter-argue also with reference to the different liability scenario.

Analysis of the Principle

The principle stated is revealing of a fundamental tenet of procedural law: the respect for the right of defense. The Court clarified that for the change of the basis of liability to be legitimate, the facts on which the action is based must not be altered. This means that the plaintiff must have provided, from the outset, sufficient evidence and contextualization of the facts, so that the opposing party can adequately defend itself.

  • Clarity of the factual situations;
  • Timeliness in presenting evidence;
  • No alteration of the original underlying facts.

Practical Implications

This ruling has important practical implications for lawyers and parties involved in compensation disputes. It offers the possibility to adapt legal strategies based on the evolution of the proceedings and emerging evidence, while ensuring the respect of procedural rights. The decision of the Court of Appeal of Bari aligns with the principles of flexibility and justice of the Italian legal system, promoting an approach that favors the fair resolution of disputes.

Conclusions

In conclusion, judgment No. 196 of 2025 represents a significant step in Italian civil law, highlighting the importance of a fair process that respects the rights of the parties. Lawyers must be ready to take advantage of the opportunities offered by this jurisprudence to better protect the rights of their clients, always in compliance with current regulations and the principles of fairness and procedural loyalty.

Bianucci Law Firm