What does the term "equitable relief" refer to?

The term "equitable relief" refers to non-monetary remedies provided by the court. This type of relief is designed to address situations where monetary damages would not be an adequate solution to a legal dispute. Instead of being compensated with money, the court may issue orders to compel a party to take specific actions or refrain from certain activities. For example, in cases involving contracts, equitable relief could involve enforcing a contract or ordering the return of property.

Equitable relief emphasizes fairness and justice, offering solutions that aim to achieve a more just outcome than what financial compensation alone could deliver. This category of relief includes injunctions, specific performance, and declaratory judgments, all of which fall outside the realm of simply awarding damages or imposing financial penalties. The distinction between equitable remedies and legal remedies (like monetary damages) is crucial, particularly in civil practice, as it influences the strategies parties may employ in litigation.

This understanding highlights why the focus on non-monetary remedies is essential when discussing equitable relief within legal contexts.