In law, damages refers to the money paid or awarded to a claimant (England), pursuer (Scotland) or plaintiff (US) following a successful claim in a civil action. Compensatory damages Compensatory damages are paid to compensate the claimant for loss, injury, or harm suffered by (see requirement of causation) another's breach of duty. Quantum/measure of damages - breach of duty - contract On a breach of contract by a defendant, a court generally awards the sum which would restore the injured pa… (More on Damages)