Punitive Damages
/ˈpjʊnɪtɪv ˈdæmɪdʒɪz/
Definitions
- (n.) Monetary compensation awarded in a civil lawsuit to punish a defendant for egregious misconduct and to deter similar conduct.
The court awarded punitive damages to the plaintiff due to the defendant’s malicious actions.
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Commentary
Punitive damages are distinct from compensatory damages as they focus on punishment and deterrence rather than reimbursement of actual loss.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.