§ 1D-35. Punitive damages awards. - North Carolina Statutes

§1D‑35.  Punitive damages awards.

In determining the amount ofpunitive damages, if any, to be awarded, the trier of fact:

(1)        Shall consider thepurposes of punitive damages set forth in G.S. 1D‑1; and

(2)        May consider onlythat evidence that relates to the following:

a.         The reprehensibilityof the defendant's motives and conduct.

b.         The likelihood, atthe relevant time, of serious harm.

c.         The degree of thedefendant's awareness of the probable consequences of its conduct.

d.         The duration of thedefendant's conduct.

e.         The actual damagessuffered by the claimant.

f.          Any concealment bythe defendant of the facts or consequences of its conduct.

g.         The existence andfrequency of any similar past conduct by the defendant.

h.         Whether thedefendant profited from the conduct.

i.          The defendant'sability to pay punitive damages, as evidenced by its revenues or net worth. (1995,c. 514, s. 1.)