Punitive damages are those awarded to a litigant, separate and apart from the person’s actual damages, to “punish” the bad conduct of the other party.
It is well-founded that “punitive damages are not recoverable for ordinary breach of contract as their purpose is not to remedy private wrongs but to vindicate public rights.” See, Rocanova v. Equitable Life Assurance Society of United States, 83 NY2d 603 [1994]. Damages arising from a simple breach of contract are usually limited to contract damages. See, New York University v. Continental Insurance Company, 87 NY2d 308 [1995].
by Richard A. Klass, Esq.
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copyr. 2012 Richard A. Klass, Esq.
The firm's website: www.CourtStreetLaw.com
Richard A. Klass, Esq., maintains a law firm engaged in civil litigation at 16 Court Street, 28th Floor, Brooklyn Heights, New York.
He may be reached at (718) COURT-ST or e-ml to RichKlass@courtstreetlaw.com with any questions.
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