How to calculate Treble Damages in Brazil

BR treble damages rules

This source-backed guide covers BR treble damages SOL (Código Civil, Art. 940). It explains how to read the calculator's multiplier output and points to the controlling BR multiplier statutes.

What the output means

Run this scenario in DocketMath using the Treble Damages calculator.

When the calculator shows a multiplier result, read it as a statutory multiplier on the base damages figure, not as a separate damages category.

• Base damages stay the same until the multiplier is applied.
• The statutory multiplier changes the total by the rule-specified factor.
• Any cap, exception, or carve-out still controls if the statute says it does.

BR rule notes

Double damages for overstated or paid-debt claims (Cód. Civil, Art. 940)

Under Brazilian Civil Code Art. 940, a plaintiff who sues for a debt already paid (in full or in part) without crediting amounts received, or who claims more than is owed, must pay the defendant double what was claimed (dobro). Art. 939 imposes double costs on premature suits. These provisions function as the Brazilian statutory multiplier for unjustified debt claims.

Código Civil, Art. 940. Aquele que demandar por dívida já paga, no todo ou em parte, sem ressalvar as quantias recebidas ou pedir mais do que for devido, ficará obrigado a pagar ao devedor, no primeiro caso, o dobro do que houver cobrado e, no segundo, o equivalente do que dele exigir, salvo se houver prescrição.

What changes the result most

• The base damages input, because the multiplier applies to that number.
• The statutory multiplier itself, because 2x, 3x, and 4x produce different totals.
• Any cap or carve-out in the statute, because it can limit the multiplied amount.

Use the calculator

DocketMath's treble-damages calculator can model multiplier outcomes once you identify the controlling statute and whether a cap or exception applies. Use the source panel for the verified primary-source rule.

Open the Treble Damages calculator

Sources

• Código Civil, Art. 940 — Multa por cobrança indevida (double-damages for claiming a paid debt)

All sources are official primary law published by www.planalto.gov.br.

Corroboration method: government_primary_source_direct_fetch.