Tort

Definition

A tort is a negligent or intentional wrongful act that damages the person or property of another, independent of any contractual relationship.

Purpose

The purpose of tort law is to provide remedies to individuals harmed by the wrongful acts of others, ensuring compensation for damages and discouraging harmful behavior.

Examples of Use

1. Personal Injury: Lawsuits for injuries caused by car accidents fall under tort law.
2. Property Damage: Cases involving damage to property due to negligence, such as a fire caused by faulty wiring, are tort cases.
3. Defamation: Legal actions for harm caused by false statements damaging a person's reputation.

Related Terms

• Negligence: Failure to take reasonable care to avoid causing harm to another person.
• Intentional Tort: A wrongful act done intentionally, such as assault or fraud.
• Strict Liability: Liability that does not depend on actual negligence or intent to harm.

Notes

• Compensation: Tort law allows victims to recover damages for medical expenses, property repairs, and other losses.
• Legal Process: Tort cases are typically resolved through litigation, where the plaintiff must prove the defendant's liability.