Suing for Punitive Damages in Henderson

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Litigation Lawyers in Henderson

The civil litigation system in Henderson, Nevada is designed to provide compensation for individuals who are injured because of the unlawful conduct of others. It is not much concerned with punishing or deterring wrongdoers.

This general principle is subject to an important exception, however. There are cases where a judge in Henderson, Nevada will order a defendant to pay the plaintiff a sum of money which is not calculated based on actual harm the plaintiff has suffered. These are called "punitive damages" and serve the purpose of punishing and deterring wrongdoing.

In Henderson, Nevada, punitive damages are not awarded in many cases. This is because the civil litigation system strongly disfavors giving money to plaintiffs in amounts disproportionate to the injuries they have suffered. However, in some cases, the conduct of the defendant is so reprehensible, that simply punishing the defendant is a worthy goal, and this interest outweighs the preference against giving civil plaintiffs financial windfalls.

Conduct that can give rise to punitive damages in Henderson, Nevada

A majority of personal injury litigation actions in Henderson, Nevada do not involve the possibility of punitive damages, because they typically involve injuries where the defendant is at fault for the harm caused, but did not intend to do any harm. In Henderson, Nevada, accidental harm may be enough to award the plaintiff compensatory damages, but it is not enough for punitive damages.

Punitive damages in Henderson, Nevada are not granted in many cases. They are only awarded when the defendant's behavior was so deplorable and deliberate (but not necessarily criminal) that punishment is warranted. Fraud, battery, conversion (theft) and other intentional, insidious acts are usually required before punitive damages in Henderson, Nevada will be considered. Moreover, in deciding how much to award in punitive damages, a court will consider 2 main factors: the insidious nature of the defendant's conduct, and the actual harm that the plaintiff suffered as a result.

There are limits on punitive damages in Henderson, Nevada. The Supreme Court has held that punitive damage awards which are grossly disproportionate to the immorality of the conduct, and the harm that it caused, are an unconstitutional deprivation of property without due process of law.

Usually, in Henderson, Nevada, punitive damage awards that exceed the actual damages (those awarded to directly compensate the plaintiff) by a factor of 10. This is not an absolute rule, however, and is applied on a case-by-case basis. Courts in Nevada have found much smaller awards to be invalid, and upheld much larger awards.

How Can a Henderson, Nevada Attorney Help?

The law of Henderson, Nevada doesn't lay out many strict conditions which are required before punitive damages can be granted. Instead, it largely leaves it to the discretion of the courts. So, there are several situations where they might be awarded.

If you live in Henderson, Nevada and are engaged in a case that you believe carries the possibility of a punitive damage award, you may be entitled to a large amount of money from the person or company that hurt you. To know for sure, you should speak with a civil litigation attorney in Henderson, Nevada.

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Life in Henderson

Henderson, Nevada proves that there is much more to Vegas than flashy shows, casinos, and night clubs. The Water Street District is a very popular attraction that is a favorite of many because it is home to wonderful art galleries, shops, special shows, and a weekly fresh farmers market. This attraction is known for hosting wonderful events that brings the Henderson community together.

Strolling along the water on a Lake Mead Cruise allows a person to enjoy the "lights and shine" of Vegas while on the water! Who ever thought Vegas had a peaceful side? Well it definitely does. Alongside the Lake Mead Cruises is the historical attraction the Hoover Dam. The Hoover Dam is known as a civil engineering wonder that allows people to experience the serenity that nature has to offer.

Other popular attractions include the Lake Mead National Recreation Area National Park, the Nevada Vintage Race Car Museum, Loews Lake, and Veteran's Wall. Additionally, kids can enjoy ice skating at The Village Ice Rink at Lake Las Vegas, or take a tour of MM World! All in all, Henderson proves to have something for everyone to enjoy.

Moreover, Henderson is home to many mid-size and small law firms. Attorneys in Henderson are able to give their clients' legal needs personalized attention and provide them with the best legal service.

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