What type of relief might a court grant to prevent ongoing harm?

Injunctive relief is a legal remedy that a court provides to prevent ongoing harm by ordering a party to do or refrain from doing specific actions. This type of relief is particularly relevant in situations where monetary damages would not adequately address the harm caused or where ongoing actions are contributing to a significant threat or violation, such as in cases of harassment, environmental harm, or breach of contract.

The necessity for injunctive relief arises when a situation requires immediate action or preventive measures to avert harm, making it distinct from other forms of legal resolution. For example, if a business is found to be infringing on a trademark, an injunction can be issued to stop the infringing activities while the case proceeds, thus safeguarding the rights of the trademark holder.

In contrast, monetary damages are typically awarded as compensation for losses already incurred but do not prevent further harm or address ongoing issues. Settlements can resolve disputes but are often negotiated agreements that do not involve court orders. Probationary periods, while relevant in certain legal contexts, are not a direct measure to prevent harm but rather a monitoring mechanism following a verdict.

Thus, injunctive relief is a critical tool in the legal system for addressing and preventing ongoing harm proactively.