A tort is best described as

• A. A private injury or wrong that can lead to a civil action
• B. A criminal offense
• C. A federal tax violation
• D. A regulatory offense

Answer: (A)

Torts are civil wrongs committed by one person against another, which gives the injured party the right to sue for a remedy. The description “a private injury or wrong that can lead to a civil action” captures this precisely because it emphasizes the private (civil) nature and the potential for a civil lawsuit. Remedies in tort cases are typically monetary damages or injunctions, not punishment or criminal penalties.

This differs from a criminal offense, which is pursued by the government and can result in punishment such as incarceration or fines. It also differs from a federal tax violation, which falls under tax law and is enforced by tax authorities. A regulatory offense involves violations of administrative or regulatory rules and can be part of criminal or civil enforcement, but it does not define the general concept of a tort. Examples of torts include negligence leading to an injury, intentional torts like battery, or defamation, all of which involve private parties seeking compensation or relief through civil court.