What are 'punitive damages' intended to accomplish?

Punitive damages are intended to serve as a legal punishment for the defendant's actions. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to reimburse the victim for their loss and restore them to their original position, punitive damages go further by seeking to penalize the wrongdoer. This type of damage is awarded primarily in cases where the defendant's behavior was particularly egregious, reckless, or intentional, demonstrating a clear disregard for the well-being of others.

The purpose of punitive damages is not just to compensate the victim but also to deter the defendant and others from engaging in similar conduct in the future. By imposing a financial penalty that exceeds the amount necessary to compensate the victim, the court aims to emphasize the seriousness of the defendant's misconduct and to discourage others from similar actions, contributing to a broader societal interest in upholding the law and promoting responsible behavior.