There are two main types of damages, compensatory and punitive, that you can recover from a discrimination lawsuit in California
Compensatory damages can include paying employees for out-of-pocket expenses such as costs associated with a job search or medical expenses, any emotional harm suffered such as mental anguish, inconvenience, or loss of enjoyment of life, back pay, front pay, and even attorney’s fees and costs.
Punitive damages may be awarded to punish an employer who has committed an especially malicious or reckless act of discrimination. They are also often used to reform or deter the employer and others from engaging in similar conduct.