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.

A toxic tort is a tort that involves exposure to harmful pharmaceuticals, chemicals, solvents, substances, gases, mold, or other materials, causing personal injuries and requiring medical treatment. Examples of toxic tort claims include exposure to asbestos-containing products, pesticides, lead-based paint, tobacco, and hazardous waste materials (such as those used by dry cleaners).

Toxic torts are often associated with personal injury claims, as many toxic torts can cause personal injuries. These claims and the related law are sometimes broadly referred to as toxic tort law.

In Minnesota, a tort is recognized as a civil wrong that can result in the tortfeasor (the person who commits the tort) being held liable for damages. Toxic torts, a subset of tort law, deal with injuries caused by exposure to harmful substances. Minnesota law allows individuals who have been exposed to toxic substances and suffered injuries as a result to seek compensation through the courts. These claims can arise from exposure to a variety of toxic substances, including asbestos, lead-based paint, chemicals, and more. Plaintiffs in toxic tort cases must prove that their injuries were caused by the exposure to the toxic substance and that the defendant was responsible for the exposure. The complexity of these cases often requires detailed scientific and medical evidence. Minnesota follows the general principles of tort law, which may include comparative fault, strict liability for certain activities, and statutes of limitations that limit the time frame within which a claim can be filed. It's important for individuals pursuing toxic tort claims in Minnesota to consult with an attorney who is experienced in this area of law to navigate the complexities and to ensure that their rights are adequately protected.