How is a tort defined in the context of civil law?

In the context of civil law, a tort is defined as a wrongful act that leads to civil liability. This means that when an individual or entity commits a tort, they can be held legally responsible for the damages or harm caused to another party. The primary purpose of tort law is to provide relief to victims who have suffered harm due to the wrongful actions of others, thereby allowing them to seek compensation for their losses.

Torts are categorized into several types, including intentional torts (like assault or defamation), negligence (which involves a failure to exercise reasonable care that results in harm), and strict liability torts (where responsibility is assigned regardless of fault). The focus of tort law is on the compensation for damages rather than punishment, distinguishing it from criminal law, where the state prosecutes criminal acts.

This foundational concept of torts is crucial in understanding civil liability and the remedies available to victims. Thus, recognizing torts as wrongful acts that can lead to civil liability is essential for grasping the broader scope of civil law and its purpose in addressing grievances and ensuring justice for those wronged.