damages (redirected from Legal damages)

damages,

n monetary award from a court as compensation for a legally proven loss.

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damages,

n.pl compensation or indemnity that may be recovered in the courts by any person who has suffered loss, detriment, or injury to person, property, or rights through the unlawful act or negligence of another.

damages, compensatory,

n.pl a sum that compensates the injured party for injury only.

damages, exemplary (punitive damages)

(igzem´plrē),
n.pl damages awarded to the plaintiff over those that will barely compensate for property loss. Such compensation may be awarded when the wrong done to the plaintiff involves violence, malice, or fraud by the defendant. The object is to provide compensation for mental suffering or loss of pride. It may be employed as punishment of the defendant.

damages, nominal,

n.pl a small sum awarded to a plaintiff in an action in which there is no substantial loss or injury to be compensated but in which the law still recognizes a technical invasion of rights or a breach of the defendant's duty. Also awarded in cases in which, although there has been a real injury, the plaintiff's evidence is not sufficient to show its amount.

damages, punitive,

n.pl See damages, exemplary.

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damages

money paid to the victor in a court case in which loss of property or income is alleged, covered by the law of torts. Simple damages are assessed on the value of the actual loss. Punitive or exemplary damages are in excess of simple damages and are awarded as a punishment against the loser in the suit if it is judged that the tort was an aggravated one, and that the defendant has been, for example, wilfully and recklessly neglectful.