They are a sum of money a jury awards intended to punish the guilty party whose conduct was particularly heinous. This is not a factor in a typical medical malpractice case, because it is a matter of simple negligence, rather than gross misconduct or the intent to cause harm. However, it may apply when sexual misconduct on the part of the medical professional is an issue.
In most circumstances, Florida law limits punitive damages to $500,000 or three times the amount awarded for compensatory damages, whichever is greater.
State:
Florida