What is the main purpose of punitive damages in a legal context?

Punitive damages serve primarily to punish a defendant for particularly egregious or malicious behavior, going beyond mere compensation for the victim's losses. The rationale behind punitive damages is to address offenses that are deemed to be not just a violation of rights, but also a significant departure from acceptable behavior that warrants a stronger response from the legal system. By imposing these damages, the court aims to deliver a message that such conduct is intolerable and will not be overlooked.

The punitive element is intended to highlight the severity of the wrongdoing, which not only punishes the offender but also signifies to society that certain actions carry serious consequences. This aligns with the broader objectives of justice, where the legal system takes a stance against not just the act itself, but also the moral and ethical implications of such behavior.

While punitive damages can also provide a deterrent effect, which aligns with the intent to prevent future misconduct, their primary focus is on punishment for the specific actions of the offender. Therefore, recognizing punitive damages as a mechanism for punishment effectively captures their purpose within the legal framework.