How do courts determine damages?

In Maryland, courts determine damages according to Maryland case law. This involves the court considering the evidence presented and making a decision based on what they find to be an appropriate amount of damages. Generally, there are two types of damages that can be awarded: compensatory damages and punitive damages. Compensatory damages are designed to make the victim “whole” by putting them in the same position they were in before the injury or wrongful conduct. Punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and, in some cases, to deter similar behavior in the future. When assessing damages in civil matters, courts in Maryland consider the extent of the injury, whether physical or mental, and the severity of financial loss. The court may also consider the culpability or fault of the party being sued and the larger circumstances of the case. For example, if a defendant acted with malice, a court may award greater damages than if a defendant did not act with malice. Courts may also award exemplary damages, which are intended to provide a larger award than compensatory damages. In addition to this, courts consider factors such as the cost of medical bills, lost wages and other economic damages, emotional distress, and other non-economic losses. Courts have discretion when it comes to calculating damages and how they are paid out. Ultimately, the goal is to provide fair and equitable relief to the injured party, while also fairly punishing the wrongdoer.

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