How does the length of confinement affect a false imprisonment claim?

The length of confinement in a false imprisonment claim is considered immaterial in determining liability but plays a significant role in assessing damages. In a false imprisonment case, the primary legal concern is whether the plaintiff was unlawfully restrained against their will. As long as there has been an unlawful detention, the duration of that confinement does not necessarily impact whether liability is established.

However, once liability is determined, the duration can be important for determining the extent of damages awarded to the plaintiff. Generally, the longer the confinement, the more severe the emotional and psychological impact on the victim can be, which contributes to the damages assessed by the court. Therefore, while the length of confinement is not a determining factor for liability itself, it is certainly relevant when considering the harm caused and thus influences the damages that may be awarded to the victim. This distinction highlights the procedural aspects of false imprisonment claims, focusing on the nature of the wrongful act versus the consequences resulting from it.