What is a tort in legal terms?

A tort, in legal terms, is defined as a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to another person, which is not arising from a breach of contract or criminal act. The essence of a tort lies in the violation of a civil duty that results in harm to another, enabling the injured party to seek compensation or remedy through the legal system. This distinguishes torts from criminal offenses, where the state prosecutes an individual for actions considered harmful to society.

Unlike breaches of contract, which involve a failure to fulfill the obligations outlined in a contractual agreement, torts can arise from a variety of circumstances, such as negligence, defamation, or intentional harm. These actions are primarily addressed in civil court, where the focus is on compensating the injured party rather than punishing the wrongdoer, as would typically occur in a criminal case.

The concept of torts is crucial in understanding personal injury law and the rights of individuals to seek redress for wrongs done to them. It encapsulates the legal framework through which victims can hold others accountable for their actions, emphasizing that while some wrongs may be criminal, many are civil in nature and addressed through civil litigation.