What are torts considered in legal terminology?

Torts are defined in legal terminology as legal wrongs that are committed against individuals or organizations, leading to harm or injury. This definition encompasses a broad range of conduct that results in a violation of a person’s rights, which can include situations where someone is negligent, intentional, or strictly liable.

In contrast to criminal actions, which are prosecuted by the government and deal primarily with offenses against society, torts are typically pursued through civil lawsuits. This civil aspect focuses on providing relief to the injured party and compensating them for their losses, rather than punishing the wrongdoer as in criminal law.

The concept of torts also includes a variety of intentional acts (like assault or defamation) as well as unintentional acts (like negligence). Therefore, it’s not limited to just intentional acts, nor does it cover actions that do not have legal consequences, as the essence of a tort is that it results in a legal claim for damages. Understanding torts as legal wrongs highlights their importance in protecting individuals' rights and ensuring accountability within various contexts.