The Legal Truth About Money & Justice
Why People Expect Money from Court
FOR many litigants, the courtroom is seen as a place of financial settlement rather than legal resolution. This belief often leads to frustration when judgments deliver punishment or clarification of rights instead of money.
Fines Are for the State
In criminal law, fines serve as punishment. They are payments to the government, reflecting society’s condemnation of unlawful conduct. Victims do not receive these funds, even if they initiated the complaint. The reward is justice, not compensation.
The Narrow Door of Compensation
Compensation is possible only when legislation allows it and when concrete harm is proven. Courts do not invent compensation where the law is silent. Emotion and public sentiment play no role in such decisions.
Damages and Civil Remedies
Damages are more common in civil disputes involving contracts, injuries, or rights violations. Yet even civil courts sometimes resolve matters without awarding money. Dismissals, declarations, and warnings are all valid judicial outcomes.
Rethinking Justice
Courts exist to uphold the law, not to guarantee financial gain. Many people lose peace by chasing payouts the law never promised. A clearer understanding of fines, compensation, and damages allows citizens to seek justice for the right reasons.
