What is a Tort in legal terms?

A tort in legal terms refers to a legal wrong that is committed against an individual or entity, which can result in civil liability. It differs from a breach of contract in that torts arise from actions that cause harm or loss without necessarily being tied to any agreement between the parties involved. Torts can encompass a wide range of actions, including negligence, defamation, or intentional infliction of emotional distress, among others, which all result in damages to another party.

Understanding torts is crucial as they form the basis of many claims in personal injury cases and other civil matters. In essence, a tort is a pathway for victims to seek compensation for harms they have suffered due to someone else's wrongdoing, thereby highlighting its significance within the legal framework of civil law. The concept of tort law aims to protect individuals and provide a remedy for damages incurred through the wrongful acts of others.