In Texas, monetary damages awarded in civil cases can include compensation for the time value of money lost between the incident and the judgment. This compensation is known as prejudgment interest. Calculating this interest can be complex, often involving specific statutory rates and varying accrual periods depending on the nature of the case. Online tools and resources designed to assist with these calculations are frequently referred to as prejudgment interest calculators. For example, a personal injury claim resolved two years after the incident might accrue interest on the awarded damages for that two-year period.
Accurately computing this form of interest is crucial for both plaintiffs and defendants. For plaintiffs, it represents fair compensation for the lost use of funds they would have had if not for the incident. For defendants, a precise calculation ensures they are not unduly burdened with excessive interest charges. The Texas Finance Code establishes specific rules and rates governing this calculation, underscoring its importance in ensuring equitable outcomes in legal proceedings. These rules have evolved over time, reflecting legislative efforts to balance the interests of all parties involved in civil litigation.
