Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages punish especially reckless or malicious conduct and deter similar behavior.
What Punitive Damages Are
When They Apply
Virginia allows punitive damages for willful or wanton conduct — such as certain drunk driving cases with very high blood alcohol levels.
The $350,000 Cap
Virginia caps punitive damages at $350,000 regardless of how egregious the conduct, so compensatory damages remain the core of most claims.
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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Virginia attorney.