Punitive Damages in Florida
State-specific overview · Contract Law
Florida caps punitive damages at the greater of three times compensatory damages or $500,000, with limited exceptions.
How Florida treats Punitive Damages
Florida law, codified in Florida Statutes § 768.73, establishes a presumptive cap on punitive damages at the greater of three times compensatory damages or $500,000. The plaintiff may exceed this cap by proving by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant's conduct was intentional, involved willful or wanton disregard, or caused substantial injury. Punitive damages are available for fraud, intentional torts, and certain negligent acts meeting the statutory threshold. The defendant's financial condition is admissible evidence in determining the punitive damages award.
The general definition of Punitive Damages
Extra money awarded to punish wrongful conduct and deter future misconduct.
Punitive damages go beyond compensating you for your actual loss; they're meant to punish the other party for especially bad behavior and discourage similar conduct in the future. These are rare in contract cases and more common in situations involving fraud, gross negligence, or intentional harm. The amount can be much larger than your actual damages because the goal is deterrence, not just making you whole.
Read the full Punitive Damages entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Florida.