Statutory Damages

Statutory damages are predetermined sums of money that a court can award to a plaintiff if they win a lawsuit, particularly in cases involving copyright, trademark, or certain consumer protection laws. Unlike actual damages, which require proof of loss, statutory damages provide a fixed amount set by law, allowing plaintiffs to receive compensation without needing to demonstrate specific financial harm. This system aims to streamline legal proceedings and deter infringement, ensuring that violators face consequences even if the plaintiff cannot establish a direct financial loss.