A tort is a wrongful act (other than a breach of a contract) that creates civil legal liability for money damages—and in some situations entitles the injured party to injunctive relief—an injunction or court order for the person or entity committing the wrongful act to stop a certain behavior or action. A person who commits a tort is known as a tortfeasor.
Torts are often associated with personal injury claims, as many torts can cause personal injuries. These claims and the related law are sometimes broadly referred to as tort law.
In Mississippi, as in other states, tort law governs civil wrongs that cause harm or loss to individuals, which are not breaches of contract. The party who commits a tort is referred to as a 'tortfeasor.' When a tort occurs, the injured party may seek monetary damages or injunctive relief, which is a court order requiring the tortfeasor to stop the harmful action. Personal injury claims are a common type of tort where the injured party seeks compensation for injuries sustained due to the tortfeasor's actions. Mississippi tort law includes, but is not limited to, negligence, intentional torts, and strict liability torts. Each type of tort has its own legal standards and requirements for proving fault and damages. An attorney specializing in tort law can provide guidance on the specifics of a case, including the likelihood of success and the potential damages that can be recovered.