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What is a restraining order?

A restraining order is a court order that legally requires one person to stop certain behavior and stay away from another person. It can protect against abuse, threats, stalking, harassment, or sexual violence and may include no-contact and distance requirements. This article explains what restraining orders are, what they cover, and how they work. Understanding […]
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Judge's Gavel and Legal Documents on Desk

What is injunctive relief?

Injunctive relief is an equitable court order that compels a party to act or to stop acting to prevent irreparable harm. Courts commonly require showing likely success on the merits and that monetary damages are inadequate. This article explains what injunctions are, key standards, and common situations where they’re used. Injunctive relief is a powerful […]
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Nominal Damages Concept Illustration

What is nominal damages?

Nominal damages are a token court award—often $1 to $100—given when a plaintiff proves a legal right was violated but shows no measurable monetary loss. They acknowledge wrongdoing and can support other relief like declaratory or injunctive remedies. This article explains what nominal damages are, why courts award them, and common scenarios where they apply. […]
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Judge's Gavel with Money Representing Punitive Damages

What is punitive damages?

Punitive damages are extra money a court may award on top of compensatory damages to punish especially reckless or intentional wrongdoing. They’re meant to deter similar misconduct, and many states limit them (often to a multiple of compensatory damages). This article explains how punitive damages work, when they’re available, and key limits. Understanding Punitive Damages […]
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Gavel and Legal Documents Representing Compensatory Damages

What is compensatory damages?

Compensatory damages are court-ordered payments meant to reimburse an injured person for economic and non-economic losses caused by another party. They commonly include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. This article explains what compensatory damages are, how they differ from punitive damages, and what they may cover. Understanding Compensatory Damages When […]
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Settlement Map with Houses and Roads

What is a settlement?

A settlement is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties to resolve a dispute without going to trial. It typically involves negotiation and compromise, often saving time and legal costs compared with litigation. This article explains what settlements are, how they work, and why parties choose them. Understanding Settlements: The Basics A settlement […]
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Mediator Facilitating Discussion Between Two Parties

What is alternative dispute resolution?

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is the umbrella term for resolving disputes outside court, commonly through three core methods: negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. ADR is usually faster, less expensive, and more private than litigation while allowing parties more control over outcomes. This article explains how ADR works, its benefits and limits, and when to use each […]
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Arbitration Process with Mediator and Two Parties

What is arbitration?

Arbitration is a private dispute-resolution process where 1 neutral arbitrator hears both sides and issues a decision, often faster than court. It’s commonly used in business and consumer contracts to reduce cost and keep matters confidential. This article explains how arbitration works, key pros and cons, and when it may be required. Understanding Arbitration: A […]
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Mediator Facilitating Discussion Between Two Parties

What is mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary alternative dispute resolution process where a neutral third-party mediator helps both sides reach a mutually agreed settlement without a judge deciding the outcome. It’s typically faster and less expensive than litigation and can preserve relationships by keeping negotiations collaborative and confidential. This article explains how mediation works, what to expect, and […]
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What is a class action lawsuit?

A class action lawsuit lets 1 or more plaintiffs sue on behalf of a larger “class” harmed in the same way by the same defendant. It consolidates many similar claims into one case to improve efficiency and access to justice. This article explains certification, notice, settlement, and how class members’ rights are handled. A class […]
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Judge's Gavel on Wooden Desk in Courtroom

What is an appeal?

An appeal is a formal request asking a higher court to review and potentially change a lower court’s decision. It focuses on legal errors in the trial record, not a new trial or new evidence. This article explains how the appeal process works, what issues can be raised, and what outcomes to expect. An appeal […]
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