Tort
A breach of some obligation, causing harm or injury to someone.
Plaintiff
In a civil case, the injured party who brings legal action against the alleged wrongdoer.
Judgement
A court's decision in a civil case.
Defendant
The person against whom a claim is made. In a civil suit, the defendant is the person being sued.
Damages
Money asked for or paid by a court order to a plaintiff for injuries or losses suffered.
Liable
Legally responsible.
Remedy
What is done to compensate for an injury or to enforce some right.
Liability
legal responsibility; the obligation to do or not do something.
Settlement
a mutual agreement between two sides in a civil lawsuit.
Common Law
A system in which court decisions establish legal principles and rules the law.
Statutes
Written laws enacted by legislatures.
Intentional Wrong
action taken deliberately to harm another person or his/her property
Negligence
The failure to exercise a reasonable amount of care in either doing or not doing something, resulting in harm or injury to another person.
Strict Liability
The legal responsibility for damage or injury even if you are not negligent.
Civil Law
All law that does not involve criminal law, such as tort or contract law.
Standard of Proof
The level of certainty and the degree of evidence necessary to establish proof in a criminal or civil proceeding.
Preponderance of the Evidence
Usually the standard of proof used in a civil suit.
Deep Pockets
The person or organization that is a possible defendant that has the most money.
Minor
A child or a person under the age of 18.
Immune
exempt from penalties, payments, or legal requirements.
Waive
To give up some right, privilege, or benefit voluntarily.
Class Action
A lawsuit brought by one or more persons on behalf of a larger group.
Contingency Fee
The fee paid to an attorney based on a percentage of the sum the client is awarded or settles for in a law suit.