Punitive damages, exemplary damages and civil penalties:
“Punitive damages” consist of an award of money against a defendant in a court case, in an
amount intended to, and sufficient to, punish the defendant and make an example of him or her.
Another name for these damages is “exemplary damages” because they make an example of the
defendant and hopefully deter others from the same kind of conduct. A related concept is a “civil
penalty” that serves the same end. Punitive damages are unusual.
Grounds required
Special grounds are required before punitive damages can be awarded. Although each state has
its own standard, generally to win punitive damages your attorney will have to show intentional
or willful and malicious or gross negligence. If the injury is intended, or where it is proven by
clear and convincing evidence that the defendant has been guilty of oppression, fraud, or malice,
the plaintiff may recover punitive damages.
Every case is different, and the decision to attempt getting punitive damages must be made by a
competent attorney after review of all the relevant facts. Furthermore, the laws pertaining to
punitive damages differ from state to state and some cities may have special rules that apply to
the martial arts. Therefore, it is essential that you obtain the advice of a competent attorney
regarding punitive damages.
Kaufman Law Group, PLLC
8000 Towers Crescent Drive
Suite 1350
Vienna, VA 22182
703.764.9080
703.764-0014 (fax)
