Opinion ID: 1755487
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Remittitur or Remand

Text: ¶ 46. USM asks for a remittitur to the $50,000 damage cap which would be the maximum available had this matter been tried under the Tort Claims Act, or in the alternative, a new trial. After considering both options, we conclude that the damages awarded were too speculative based upon the evidence presented at trial. When the focus is on a monetary remedy, that remedy must be such that the breaching party is not charged beyond the trouble the breach caused. Frierson v. Delta Outdoor, Inc., 794 So.2d 220, 225 (Miss.2001) (citing Wall v. Swilley, 562 So.2d 1252, 1256 (Miss.1990)). The law limits speculation and conjecture and imposes duties of mitigation to the injured party. Id. Specifically, damages may only be recovered when the evidence presented at trial removes their quantum from the realm of speculation and conjecture and transports it through the twilight zone and into the daylight of reasonable certainty. Id. ¶ 47. We hold that there was a valid contract between USM and Williams and that USM breached the contract and is, therefore, liable for damages arising from that breach. However, the damages awarded at trial were too speculative, and the evidence insufficient to be relied upon as proof for such damages.