Do Compensatory damages include back pay?
Andrew Ramirez
Published Apr 23, 2026
How are back pay damages calculated in an employment discrimination case? In most Title VII cases in federal court, the judge, not the jury, will make this decision. The reason for this is that back pay is considered equitable relief, as opposed to legal relief (such as compensatory or punitive damages).
How does EEOC settlement work?
Settlement is an informal process. The goal of settlement is to reach an agreement that is satisfactory to all parties. There is no admission of liability. If the parties, including EEOC, reach a voluntary agreement, the charge will be dismissed.
The reason for this is that back pay is considered equitable relief, as opposed to legal relief (such as compensatory or punitive damages). You may recover back pay damages for a period of two years before you filed your charge of discrimination with the EEOC.
How many complaints of retaliation does the EEOC receive per year?
Retaliation: 37,632 (55.8 percent of all charges filed) Disability: 24,324 (36.1 percent) Race: 22,064 (32.7 percent) Sex: 21,398 (31.7 percent)
How much was EEOC awarded for emotional distress?
In addition to the $200,000 emotional distress award, EEOC awarded pecuniary damages for wear and tear on Complainant’s vehicle in the amount of $ 8,859.16; trailer rental and storage costs in the amount of $ 3,484.19; moving expenses in the amount of $ 1,136.00; lodging costs in the amount of $ 244.08;
What does EEOC mean by specific harm suffered?
1991. EEOC Notice No. 915.002 at 11-12, 14 (July 14, 1992) specific harm suffered. This is usually termed ‘pain, suffering, and loss of amenity.’ Examples of the contract, in lieu of performance or quantification of actual damages sustained. (Webster’s damages than the amount allowed under laws enforced by EEOC.
What are the rules for EEO damage awards?
The Commission’s Enforcement Guidance acknowledges that damage awards for emotional harm differ greatly, and there are no clear rules governing the amounts to be awarded. When determining these types of awards, however, it is necessary to limit the amount to the sums necessary to compensate the individual for actual harm.
How does compensatory damages work in a discrimination case?
Compensatory damages pay victims for out-of-pocket expenses caused by the discrimination (such as costs associated with a job search or medical expenses) and compensate them for any emotional harm suffered (such as mental anguish, inconvenience, or loss of enjoyment of life).