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 West Virginia (WV), as in other states, tort law governs civil wrongs that cause harm or loss to individuals, separate from contractual breaches. When a person or entity commits a tort, they are referred to as a tortfeasor and can be held liable for damages. The injured party may seek monetary compensation for losses incurred due to the tortfeasor's actions. Common examples of torts include negligence, which can lead to personal injury claims, as well as intentional torts like assault or defamation. West Virginia law also allows for injunctive relief in certain cases, which is a court order requiring the tortfeasor to stop the harmful action. The specifics of tort law in WV are detailed in the state's statutes and case law, and an attorney can provide guidance on the application of these laws to individual cases.