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