Sérelemdíjban

Sérelemdíjban is a term used in Hungarian civil law to refer to the category of non-pecuniary damages, i.e., compensation for pain, suffering and other non-material harms resulting from wrongful conduct. The word combines sérelem (injury, harm or grievance) and díj (payment or award), with the suffix -ban indicating the context or domain, so the expression means "in the context of non-economic damages."

In practice, sérelemdíjban concerns nem vagyoni kár, damages that are not financial losses like medical expenses or lost earnings but harm to personal rights, dignity, or emotional well-being. The Hungarian Civil Code (Polgári Törvénykönyv) and related case law govern how such damages are awarded. A court will assess whether the defendant acted unlawfully, whether there is causation, and the extent to which the plaintiff suffered non-material harm.

The amount awarded under sérelemdíjban is determined on a case-by-case basis. Factors typically considered include the severity and duration of the harm, the impact on the claimant’s daily life and mental state, the lasting consequences, the claimant’s age and life circumstances, and the degree of fault or intention of the defendant. There is no statutory fixed tariff; judges rely on legal principles, precedent, and general guidelines to reach an appropriate sum.

Sérelemdíjban can arise in various disputes, such as personal injury, defamation, or violations of personality rights. It is distinct from pecuniary damages, which cover material losses and costs.