What is the legal definition of "tort"?

The legal definition of "tort" refers specifically to a wrongful act that results in civil legal liability. This broad category of wrongful actions can lead to various legal consequences, typically involving compensation for damages caused to another party. Torts can include actions such as negligence, defamation, assault, and battery, among others, and are distinct from criminal acts or breaches of contract.

In tort law, the focus is on providing relief to the person who has been harmed, thus emphasizing the principle of making the injured party whole rather than punishing the wrongdoer. This distinction is crucial in understanding the nature of civil litigation, where remedies often take the form of monetary compensation for losses suffered due to the wrongful behavior of another.

Other choices, such as an administrative violation or a breach of criminal law, do not encompass the essence of tort law, which is centered on civil wrongs specifically. Similarly, a contractual obligation pertains to agreements between parties and does not fall under the purview of tort law. Understanding the specific definition and implications of tort is key for anyone involved in legal studies or the practice of law.