Punitive damages in common law can upset everyone for different reasons. The Supreme Court's involvement in imposing punishment after a civil trial, private plaintiffs receiving excessive compensation, and the use of substantive Due Process have caused controversy. The Exxon-Valdez oil spill case led to a lengthy legal battle with unsatisfactory outcomes for all parties involved. The article discusses the issues with punitive damages, criticizes the Supreme Court's decision, and suggests legislative changes to regulate punitive damages more effectively.