What is the definition of a tort?

A tort is defined as a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to another individual, which may result in legal liability. This legal concept allows individuals to seek compensation for damages through the civil court system. Tort law is generally concerned with situations where one party’s actions have unjustly caused harm or injury to another, whether that be through negligence, intentional acts, or strict liability scenarios.

Understanding this definition helps clarify the distinction between torts and other legal concepts. For instance, a criminal offense refers to actions that violate laws established by the state and are punishable by the government, rather than by individual lawsuits. An ethical violation pertains to breaches of moral principles and standards, which may not necessarily involve legal ramifications. Lastly, a contract dispute relates to disagreements over the terms of an agreement between parties, which also falls under a different legal category than tort law.