What does tort law encompass?

Tort law encompasses rights and duties that exist independent of a contract. This area of law addresses civil wrongs that cause harm or loss to individuals, allowing them to seek compensation for the injuries or damages they suffer. Such wrongs can occur due to negligence, intentional acts, or strict liability, and they are not contingent upon any contractual relationship between the parties involved.

For example, if a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, resulting in injury to a patient, the patient can pursue a tort claim for medical malpractice. This demonstrates the core principle of tort law: it is concerned with the responsibilities individuals owe to one another in society, irrespective of any formal agreement or contract.

The other options refer to different areas of law. Contract law focuses on the rights and duties that arise from agreements between parties, and criminal law deals with offenses against the state and the corresponding regulations and penalties. Family law governs issues related to familial relationships, such as divorce and child custody. Tort law stands apart by addressing non-contractual civil disputes and the compensation for injuries or damages resulting from those disputes.