What type of damages is awarded to punish a defendant for malicious behavior?

Punitive damages are awarded to punish a defendant for particularly malicious, reckless, or egregious behavior, and to deter similar conduct in the future. Unlike compensatory damages, which are intended to reimburse the plaintiff for actual losses suffered as a result of the defendant's actions, punitive damages go beyond simple compensation and serve a societal purpose. They signal that the behavior exhibited by the defendant is unacceptable and warranting punishment.

In cases where the actions of the defendant are especially harmful or demonstrate a disregard for the well-being of others, courts may decide to impose punitive damages to enforce accountability and uphold public standards of conduct. This type of damage serves as a powerful tool in the legal system to discourage wrongdoing not only by the specific defendant but also by others who might consider similar actions.