What is the difference between general and punitive damages?

General and punitive damages are types of damages awarded during a civil lawsuit.  General damages provide compensation for non-monetary harms suffered.  This often includes pain and suffering.  Examples include physical and emotional pain, loss of companionship, loss of consortium, disfigurement, loss of reputation, loss of mental or physical capacity, loss of enjoyment of life, etc.  There is no exact dollar amount for general damages and they are not easily quantifiable; these damages are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Punitive damages aim to punish and deter the defendant and others from engaging in the same or similar conduct.  Punitive damages are not intended to compensate the plaintiff; however, the plaintiff does (in most cases) receive all or part of the punitive damages.  Punitive damages are also sometimes granted in cases where the compensatory damages are not enough and the court wants to prevent the plaintiff from being under-compensated.  Punitive damages are usually worth more than the amount assigned to the plaintiff’s injuries.  Because of this, punitives are awarded only in special cases, usually when the defendant engaged in extremely egregious conduct.

In Georgia, identity theft victims have several remedies.  In addition to criminal relief, victims have the right to bring an action in civil court.  Victims are often entitled to general damages and, in some cases, punitive damages can be sought.

If you have been a victim of identity theft or would like more information regarding damages, contact a qualified attorney in your area.  A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal procedures and ensure your rights are protected.