Is there a limit to the amount of punitive damages a person can receive in a defamation suit?

Yes, there is a limit to the amount of punitive damages a person can receive in a defamation suit in Washington. Under Washington law, punitive damages may not exceed an amount that is twice the amount of compensatory damages. Furthermore, the amount of punitive damages awarded to an individual cannot exceed either two million dollars or the amount of actual economic damages awarded, whichever is greater. This limit is in place to ensure that innocent parties aren’t unjustly punished by excessive punitive damages awards. Damages awarded in a defamation suit are intended to make the plaintiff whole, not to serve as a punishment. Additionally, the Washington Supreme Court has ruled that punitive damages generally should only be awarded if the plaintiff proves by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with malice, fraud, or oppression. These damages should be awarded only if they are necessary to repair the plaintiff’s damages and are the least intrusive and most reasonable means of achieving this purpose. Overall, there is a limit to the amount of punitive damages a person can receive in a defamation suit in Washington. These limits are in place to ensure that innocent parties are not subjected to excessive damages awards intended to punish them for their actions.

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Is there a limit to the amount of punitive damages a person can receive in a defamation suit?

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