What is punity damages?

Punitive damages are a type of monetary compensation awarded in civil lawsuits, intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or malicious behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to reimburse the plaintiff for actual losses, punitive damages are awarded over and above the actual damages. They are typically applied in cases involving gross negligence, willful misconduct, or fraud. The amount awarded can vary significantly based on the severity of the defendant's actions and the jurisdiction's laws.