What is the difference between "actual damages" and "consequential damages"?

Actual damages refer to the direct financial losses that a party incurs as a result of another party's wrongful act. These damages are quantifiable and can include expenses like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages that directly result from the incident.

Consequential damages, on the other hand, represent indirect losses that occur as a consequence of the initial wrongdoing. These damages are not a direct result of the act but are instead a result of the circumstances arising from it. For example, if a business is unable to operate due to a breach of contract, the loss of potential revenue would be considered consequential damages.

Therefore, the distinction lies in the nature of the losses: actual damages are direct and easily measurable, while consequential damages are indirect and may vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the case. This understanding underscores the significance of differentiating between types of damages in legal contexts, especially in civil litigation.