What does causation refer to in legal terms?

Causation in legal terms specifically refers to the connection between cause and effect, particularly how an action or inaction leads to a particular outcome or harm. In the context of healthcare law, establishing causation is crucial in malpractice cases, where a patient claims that a healthcare provider's negligence resulted in injury or harm. This means demonstrating that the provider's conduct (the cause) directly led to the patient's adverse effect (the effect).

The concept of causation is fundamental to proving liability, as it links the defendant’s actions to the plaintiff's damages, making it essential in legal arguments about accountability and responsibility in healthcare settings. Understanding this connection is vital for legal practitioners in navigating cases involving patient care and safety.