In legal terms, what is the definition of a tort?

A tort is defined as a wrongful act or an infringement of a right (other than under contract) leading to legal liability. This encompasses a wide range of actions that can cause harm or loss to another person, allowing the injured party to seek compensation or damages in civil court. Torts can include negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and many other scenarios where one party's actions infringe upon the legal rights of another. The essence of a tort is that it arises from civil wrongs as opposed to criminal offenses, which are prosecuted by the state, thus highlighting its focus on personal injury and damages rather than punishment. Understanding this definition is crucial for legal professionals and anyone involved in civil law, as it lays the foundation for tort law and the principles governing personal injury claims.