What is meant by "equitable relief"?

Equitable relief refers to a type of remedy in legal proceedings whereby a court orders a party to take a specific action or to refrain from taking certain actions. This form of relief is distinct from monetary compensation, which is typically awarded to remedy a harm suffered by one party due to the actions of another. Instead of simply providing financial compensation for a loss, equitable relief focuses on fairness and justice, ensuring that the outcome serves a just purpose.

For instance, if one party breaches a contract, the aggrieved party may seek equitable relief in the form of an injunction, which requires the breaching party to fulfill their contractual obligations instead of merely compensating the other party with money. This remedy highlights the court's role in enforcing rights and preventing harm or further injustices, emphasizing fairness in resolving disputes.