Legal Definitions - irreparable harm

Irreparable harm is a type of harm that cannot be fixed or compensated by money. It is a requirement for the issuance of a preliminary injunction or temporary restraining order. In order to obtain such an order, the person requesting it must prove that they will suffer irreparable harm if the order is not granted.

• Injury to reputation or goodwill
• Deprivation of constitutional rights, such as the right to free speech
• Enjoining dredging operations in living coral reefs that were about to be declared a national monument
• Loss by an athletic team of the services of a star athlete
• Suspension of the boxing license of the World Heavyweight Champion

These examples illustrate how irreparable harm can take many forms. Injury to reputation or goodwill cannot be fixed by money, as once a person's reputation is damaged, it can be difficult to repair. Deprivation of constitutional rights, such as the right to free speech, is a fundamental right that cannot be compensated by money. Enjoining dredging operations in living coral reefs that were about to be declared a national monument is an example of harm to the environment that cannot be undone. Loss by an athletic team of the services of a star athlete can result in lost opportunities and revenue that cannot be compensated. Suspension of the boxing license of the World Heavyweight Champion can result in lost opportunities and revenue, as well as damage to the boxer's reputation and career.