Utah Punitive damages are a form of damages awarded in a civil lawsuit to punish a wrongdoer for their willful or reckless disregard for another person's rights. Punitive damages are designed to send a message to the wrongdoer that such behavior will not be tolerated and to discourage similar behavior in the future. In Utah, punitive damages can be awarded to victims of intentional tortious conduct, breach of contract, or public nuisance. The types of punitive damages that may be awarded in Utah include exemplary damages, treble damages, and attorney fees. Exemplary damages are those awarded to punish a wrongdoer and to deter similar behavior in the future. Treble damages are those awarded to compensate victims for more than the actual harm caused. Attorney fees are those awarded to cover the costs of litigating a case.