Punitive Damages in Washington
State-specific overview · Contract Law
Washington permits punitive damages for fraud and oppression but caps them at the greater of three times compensatory damages or $250,000.
How Washington treats Punitive Damages
Washington law allows punitive damages primarily in fraud cases and when conduct is oppressive, malicious, or in reckless disregard of others' rights. The state imposes a statutory cap: punitive damages cannot exceed the greater of three times the compensatory damages award or $250,000, though this cap may be waived in certain circumstances. The plaintiff must prove the defendant's conduct by clear and convincing evidence. Punitive damages are generally unavailable in ordinary negligence or breach of contract cases.
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 Washington.