What defines a "tort"?

A "tort" is fundamentally defined as a wrongful act or infringement of a right that leads to civil legal liability. This concept originates from the idea that individuals should be held responsible for actions that cause harm to others. The essence of tort law is to provide a remedy to individuals who have suffered harm due to the actions of others, whether those actions were intentional or negligent.

When someone commits a tort, they can be sued in civil court, and the injured party may be awarded damages for their losses. This differs significantly from a legal agreement, which is a contract between parties, or a legal precedent, which refers to judicial decisions that establish a rule or principle that will be followed in future cases. Additionally, a tort is distinct from criminal offenses because criminal acts are prosecuted by the state and result in penalties such as imprisonment, while torts are primarily concerned with compensating victims through civil lawsuits. Understanding this definition is crucial for grasping the broader context of personal injury and civil law.