What is the primary consideration in determining damages for a breach of contract?

The primary consideration in determining damages for a breach of contract is indeed the economic loss incurred. In contract law, the goal is to put the injured party in the position they would have been in had the contract been fulfilled as agreed. This typically involves calculating the financial impact of the breach, which can include lost profits, costs incurred, and other monetary losses directly resulting from the breach.

Focusing on economic loss ensures that the compensation awarded aligns with the actual financial harm suffered. By quantifying this loss, the court can make informed decisions regarding damages that restore fairness and uphold the contract's original intent.

Other factors, such as the relationship between the parties, the emotional impact, or the time taken to resolve disputes, may offer context or influence broader issues of damages or settlements, but they do not constitute the primary basis for calculating damages in breach of contract situations where economic loss remains the central focus.