Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

What is an Intentional Tort?

1. Harm caused accidentally

2. Intentional conduct that harms a person or property

3. A breach of contract

4. Actions taken in self-defense

The correct answer is: Intentional conduct that harms a person or property

An intentional tort refers to a situation where a person deliberately engages in actions that cause harm to another individual or their property. This category of tort law emphasizes the element of intent, meaning the perpetrator has a purposeful desire to bring about the harmful consequences of their actions. Examples of intentional torts include assault, battery, false imprisonment, and trespass, all of which require that the actor intended to commit the act that led to the harm. In contrast, harm caused accidentally falls under the category of negligence, which does not require intent. A breach of contract relates to a failure to fulfill the obligations set forth in a contractual agreement, rather than an act causing personal or property damage. Actions taken in self-defense, while they may involve physical harm, are typically perceived as justifiable and do not constitute an intentional tort when the force used is proportionate to the threat faced. Therefore, the definition of an intentional tort accurately encompasses the intentionality behind the harmful conduct described in the selected answer.