tort law

Legislation governing wrongful acts, other than breaches of contract by one person against another or his or her property, for which civil action can be brought. Tort law and contract law define civil liability exposures. The four areas of torts are negligence, intentional interference, absolute liability, and strict liability. For example, the owner of a decrepit boat dock that collapses while people are standing on it might be liable under negligence. Assault and battery are an example of intentional interference. The owner of a poisonous snake that bit someone could be liable for injury under absolute liability, even if he or she did not intend to harm anyone. The maker of a defective product that harms the buyer might be held liable under strict liability. See also Tort Liability.

Area of law that deals with civil wrongs perpetrated against another person or private property. The primary concerns in dentistry are negligence and malpractice. Any lapse in professional standards may be subject to proceedings for negligence or malpractice.