What is the legal definition of a tort?

The legal definition of a tort is understood as a civil wrong. This concept is fundamental in tort law, which governs civil wrongs that cause harm or loss to individuals. A tort can arise from various actions, such as negligence, defamation, or trespass, and it allows the injured party to seek compensation or remedies through the legal system.

Understanding that a tort is specifically categorized as a civil wrong is crucial because it distinguishes torts from other legal categories, such as criminal offenses. While a tort involves private disputes between individuals and requires a different legal approach compared to criminal law, which involves prosecution by the state for offenses against society. The emphasis on being a civil wrong highlights the nature of tort law, focusing on compensation for damages rather than punishment, which is typical in criminal law.