Proving Damages: Basics
Courts award damages that are proven with reasonable certainty. This note explains common categories and supporting evidence.
Direct damages
- Unpaid amounts under the contract (invoices, transfer logs)
- Refundable deposits (lease, service retainers)
Consequential damages
- Lost profits require concrete, contemporaneous records (orders, P&L, traffic stats)
- Courts may reduce speculative portions
Interest & costs
- Statutory interest often accrues from demand or filing dates
- Receipts for fees, delivery, notarization help recover costs
Practical tips
- Keep a running ledger with dates, amounts, and exhibits
- Use screenshots with timestamps and URLs
- Avoid exaggeration; explain calculation method briefly