Tort

A private or civil wrong or injury for which the court provides a remedy through an action for damages.

Source: U.S. Courts

A civil, not criminal, wrong. A negligent or intentional injury against a person or property, with the exception of breach of contract.

Source: U.S. Courts

A private or civil wrong; failure to perform some duty required by law or custom, resulting in harm to another. The victim of a tort may have the right to sue for damages to compensate for the harm suffered. Victims of crimes may also sue in tort (in a civil case) for the wrongs done to them. (See also Damages.)

Source: California Courts.

Last reviewed October 2022