What are punitive damages intended to provide when awarded by a court?

Punitive damages are awarded by a court primarily to serve as a punishment for the defendant and to deter similar behavior in the future. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to compensate the plaintiff for actual losses suffered (such as medical expenses or lost wages), punitive damages go beyond mere compensation. They are intended to penalize wrongful conduct that is found to be particularly egregious, malicious, or reckless. This type of damage award sends a message to the defendant and to society that such behavior will not be tolerated, promoting the notion that there are consequences for harmful actions.

In terms of the other options, compensation for incurred losses focuses on reimbursing victims for their actual damages, which is not the purpose of punitive damages. Reimbursement for legal fees is also separate from punitive damages, as legal costs are typically addressed through different types of awards or settlements. Lastly, while punitive damages may lead to changes in behavior, the primary aim remains the punishment of the wrongdoer rather than serving as a direct incentive for behavior modification. The essence of punitive damages lies in their role as a mechanism of accountability rather than a simple tool for incentivizing change.