intentional Tort

What Is an Intentional Tort? Answers and Examples

When an injury happens, who’s responsible for the losses that follow?

Often, that’s a very difficult question to answer. That’s why our nation established criminal and civil court systems. These systems look at intentional tort situations and seek to determine who was at fault.

Are you not exactly sure what an intentional tort is? Are you unclear about your legal options after sustaining an injury or loss? Don’t fret. We’re here to explain the basics and let you in on what your legal options are.

Read on to get the full scoop.

What’s an Intentional Tort?

So, what exactly is an intentional tort? This term defines an act committed by someone on purpose that leads to injuries or loss.

That’s not to say that the person committing the tort intended for an injury to happen. It does mean that the person did the action on purpose, though.

Many intentional torts are crimes. Others are civil violations.

Classic Examples of Intentional Torts

Are you still unsure about what types of actions are intentional torts? Here are some of the most common examples:

  • False imprisonment
  • Assault
  • Battery
  • Invasion of Privacy
  • Defamation
  • Infliction of emotional distress
  • Fraud
  • Trespass
  • Homicide

Many of these actions get committed with the intent to harm the victim. Others, though, aren’t so straight-forward.

For example, someone might commit fraud to improve their own status. They might not intend to cause you financial harm, but it still happens due to their actions.

Your Legal Options After an Intentional Injury

Did someone else commit an intentional tort that resulted in an injury or loss for you? If so, then you’re likely wondering what your options are.

As explained above, many intentional torts are crimes. That means you have the right to pursue criminal charges against the aggressor. Don’t hesitate to pursue justice by informing your local police station.

That’s not your only legal recourse, though. You can also pursue a civil lawsuit.

Statistics show that 92% of tort cases involve some form of personal injury. If you got harmed, then you deserve civil justice. This type of lawsuit often involves compensation for your injury.

You can get started on seeking out a claim by conducting research on attorneys in your area. Choose a personal injury lawyer with experience dealing with intentional torts. They’ll help you compile a case and get the compensation you deserve.

Will You Pursue a Civil Lawsuit or Criminal Charges?

In a nutshell, an intentional tort is a wrongful act that hurts someone or someone’s property. In some cases, these willful acts are also considered crimes.

Were you injured by an intentional tort? If so, then you have both civil and criminal recourse. You can pursue charges against the person, or you can seek out compensation in civil court.

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