Damages
Damages are monetary compensation a court awards to a party that has suffered a legally recognized injury. Different types include compensatory damages, nominal damages, and punitive damages, and the available remedy depends on the claim and applicable law.
Damages are monetary compensation a court awards to a party that has suffered a legally recognized injury. Different types include compensatory damages, nominal damages, and punitive damages, and the available remedy depends on the claim and applicable law.
Example: In Carey v. Piphus (1978), the Supreme Court considered damages for violations of procedural due process and explained the role of proof of actual injury in awarding compensatory damages.
Common misconception: Every legal violation automatically entitles a person to a large monetary award. The plaintiff must satisfy the legal requirements for the particular remedy and prove any required injury.
Sources: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USREPORTS-435/pdf/USREPORTS-435-247.pdf; https://www.uscourts.gov/glossary