In tort law, what is a "damages" award?

In tort law, a "damages" award refers specifically to the compensation that is granted to a plaintiff who has suffered harm or injury as a result of the defendant's wrongful conduct. The fundamental purpose of awarding damages is to make the plaintiff whole, or as close to whole as possible, by providing financial restitution for losses incurred. This can include things like medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other forms of economic and non-economic damages.

The concept of damages is central to tort law because it serves as a mechanism for addressing grievances and encourages individuals and entities to act responsibly. Unlike penalty sentences in criminal law, which are meant to punish a wrongdoer, damages are focused on rectifying the harm inflicted upon the victim. Thus, this understanding of damages is foundational for anyone studying tort law, as it directly reflects the goals of civil justice in terms of compensation and accountability.