Do compensatory damages require that the wrong be proven?

Compensatory damages are typically awarded to make the injured party whole again after a loss or injury caused by someone else's wrongdoing. This type of damage is fundamentally grounded in the principle of accountability; therefore, it is crucial to establish that a wrongful act occurred and directly caused the injury or loss in question.

The answer indicates that compensatory damages do not require proof of a wrongful act, which is misleading. In reality, to receive compensatory damages, a plaintiff must demonstrate that a wrongful act (tort or breach of contract) led to their injury. This requirement ensures that compensation is warranted and corresponds to actual harm suffered.

In contrast, other categories of damages, such as punitive damages, may be awarded under different circumstances, particularly if the conduct was especially egregious or malicious, not necessarily tied to the same standard of proof about compensation for harm.

Understanding this context highlights the necessity of proving the underlying wrong to justify the award of compensatory damages, reinforcing that option B does not accurately reflect the principles of liability and compensation in legal contexts.