What type of damages can be awarded for mental anguish in a DTPA action?

In a Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA) action, a successful claimant can indeed be awarded treble damages for mental anguish. The DTPA is designed to protect consumers from deceptive business practices, and it allows for various types of damages to be sought depending on the nature of the deception and the harm suffered.

Treble damages, or triple damages, are available under the DTPA when a consumer proves that they suffered damages as a result of a deceptive act or practice, and the conduct of the seller was committed knowingly. This means that if the seller knew their act was deceptive and still engaged in it, the consumer can not only recover the actual damages suffered but can also receive those damages multiplied by three.

Mental anguish falls under the category of actual damages in this context, which can be specially considered when the emotional harm is a significant aspect of the consumer's experience with the deceptive trade practice. Therefore, a consumer harmed by deceptive practices who also suffers mental anguish may be eligible for treble damages, making this option valid and aligned with the intent of the DTPA to deter wrongful conduct and ensure compensation for consumers.

Other options do not capture the full scope of potential damages that can be awarded under the DTPA