How is a tort defined?

A tort is defined as a civil wrong, which means it is an act or the result of an act that causes harm or loss to another individual or entity, leading to legal liability. This definition encompasses a wide range of wrongful actions that do not arise from a breach of contract, but instead involve violation of a duty that the laws impose. Torts can lead to personal injury, property damage, or other losses, and the injured party may seek compensation through a civil lawsuit.

Understanding that a tort is primarily concerned with civil matters rather than criminal law is crucial. This differentiates it from other legal concepts, such as court decisions, legal documents, or public notices, which do not directly convey the notion of a civil wrong harming another individual. The focus of tort law is on providing remedies to individuals whose rights have been infringed upon or whose safety has been compromised through the actions of others.