The judicial authority will, in cases not herein excepted, render declaratory judgments as to the existence or nonexistence (1) of any right, power, privilege or immunity; or (2) of any fact upon which the existence or nonexistence of such right, power, privilege or immunity does or may depend, whether such right, power, privilege or immunity now exists or will arise in the future.
Section 17-54.Declaratory Judgment; Scope
Current through August 12, 2025 (2026 Practice Book edition) · Last verified July 9, 2026
In one sentenceCourts will issue declaratory judgments settling whether a right, power, privilege, or immunity exists, or whether a fact exists on which such a right depends, whether present or future.
Full Text of Section 17-54
Amendment History
(P.B. 1978-1997, Sec. 389.)
Plain-English Summary
This is the foundational rule opening declaratory judgment practice. Except for cases excepted elsewhere, the judicial authority will render declaratory judgments on the existence or nonexistence of any right, power, privilege, or immunity, or on the existence or nonexistence of any fact that such a right, power, privilege, or immunity does or may depend on.
The rule reaches beyond present circumstances: it covers a right, power, privilege, or immunity that already exists as well as one that will arise in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can a declaratory judgment resolve under this rule?
It can resolve whether a right, power, privilege, or immunity exists or doesn’t exist, and whether a fact on which such a right depends exists or doesn’t exist.
Does a right have to already exist to seek a declaratory judgment?
No. The rule covers rights, powers, privileges, or immunities that currently exist as well as ones that will arise in the future.
Are there exceptions to when courts will render declaratory judgments?
Yes, the rule applies “in cases not herein excepted,” meaning other provisions in this cluster of rules carve out exceptions and conditions.
Source & verification. The section text is reproduced verbatim from the
official Connecticut Practice Book (Conn. Practice Book § 17-54). Prescribed by the Judges of the Superior Court of Connecticut (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 51-14). The plain-English summary is original and written by us. Last verified July 9, 2026. ·
Official source
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