Legal Definitions - lucrativa causa

Lucrativa Causa

Lucrativa causa describes a situation where an individual or entity receives a benefit, asset, or enrichment without providing any payment, service, or other form of compensation in return. Essentially, it refers to an acquisition of value that is entirely gratuitous, meaning it is given freely and without expectation of an exchange.

Here are some examples:

• Example 1: A Generous Monetary Gift

  An elderly relative decides to give their grandchild, who is saving for a down payment on a house, a substantial sum of $50,000. The grandchild is not expected to repay the money, perform any tasks, or provide anything in exchange for this financial assistance.

  This illustrates lucrativa causa because the grandchild receives a significant financial enrichment without having to provide any compensation or consideration whatsoever. The transfer of wealth is purely gratuitous.

• Example 2: Unexpected Inheritance of an Asset

  A person discovers they have been named as a beneficiary in the will of a distant acquaintance and are bequeathed a valuable collection of antique books. The will specifies that the collection is to be transferred directly to them, and they are not required to pay the estate or other beneficiaries for its acquisition.

  This demonstrates lucrativa causa because the individual acquires a valuable asset (the book collection) solely through inheritance, without having to expend any of their own funds or provide any services to obtain ownership.

• Example 3: A Full-Ride Scholarship

  A talented student athlete is offered a full scholarship to a university, covering all tuition, room, and board for their entire degree program. While they are expected to participate in their sport, the scholarship itself is a direct financial benefit that does not require them to repay the funds or perform additional work beyond their athletic commitment.

  This is an example of lucrativa causa because the student receives a substantial financial benefit (paid education and living expenses) that enriches them, without being obligated to provide direct monetary compensation or service in return for the scholarship funds.