irreparable harm
Definition
Irreparable harm means damage that money alone cannot adequately fix or undo. Courts use this concept when deciding whether to step in quickly and stop someone from doing something before a full trial can take place. The harm is considered irreparable when waiting for a normal lawsuit to play out would leave you permanently worse off in a way that a check simply cannot make right.
Example
If a former employee is about to hand your secret customer list to a competitor, a court might grant an emergency order to stop them because once that information spreads, no amount of money can truly undo the damage to your business relationships.
Watch Out
If you need a court to act fast to protect your business, you must be ready to clearly explain why money is not enough to make you whole, because without proving irreparable harm, a judge will likely make you wait for a full trial.
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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.