In California civil cases, damages are a monetary award given to a plaintiff as compensation for harm or loss suffered due to the defendant’s actions. The primary goal of damages is to make the plaintiff “whole” by compensating for actual losses. Compensatory damages, which include both economic and non-economic damages, are the most common type. Economic damages cover tangible losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life. California law also allows for the award of punitive damages in certain cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly malicious, fraudulent, or grossly negligent, although they are not available in every type of case.
California also recognizes several other forms of damages depending on the circumstances. For example, nominal damages may be awarded when a legal wrong has occurred but the plaintiff has not suffered significant harm, symbolizing the recognition of the violation. Additionally, restitution damages may require the defendant to return any ill-gotten gains or unjustly acquired benefits. In some instances, California courts may award liquidated damages if the parties to a contract have agreed on a specific amount of damages in the event of a breach, as long as the amount is not deemed a penalty. Overall, damages in California civil cases serve both to compensate the plaintiff and, in some instances, to deter defendants from engaging in wrongful behavior.
