Art. 861 Same; special damage

If you're asking the court to award you a specific dollar amount for a loss, you need to spell out exactly what that loss is in your court papers. You can't just say the other person's actions cost you money. You have to list the actual expenses or losses you're claiming.

This kind of claim is called "special damages." Examples include things like medical bills, lost wages, repair costs, or other specific amounts you can put a number on. Unlike general pain and suffering, which doesn't need to be itemized, these costs must be clearly written out so the other side knows exactly what you're asking for and can prepare their defense.

The reason for this rule is fairness. The other party shouldn't be surprised in court by a claim for costs they never knew about. By requiring you to list these damages upfront, everyone involved knows what's being claimed and can plan accordingly.