What is the primary purpose of tort law?

The primary purpose of tort law is to compensate those who have suffered harm due to the negligent acts or omissions of others. Tort law provides a legal framework that allows individuals who have experienced injury or damage to seek restitution for their losses. This includes not only physical injuries but also emotional distress, property damage, and other forms of harm.

Tort law emphasizes the idea of civil liability, meaning that if an individual or entity's careless conduct causes harm to another person, the injured party may be entitled to recover damages. By doing so, tort law aims to restore the victim, as closely as possible, to the position they would have been in had the harm not occurred. This compensatory function supports accountability and discourages negligent behavior, creating a safer environment for the community at large.

In contrast, punishing criminal actions is the domain of criminal law, which seeks to deter individuals from engaging in conduct deemed harmful to society. Contractual obligations are addressed through contract law, focusing on enforceable agreements between parties. Lastly, regulating business transactions pertains to commercial law, which establishes guidelines for fair trading and business practices. Each of these areas serves distinct functions within the broader legal system, while tort law is specifically crafted to provide remedy for personal or property injuries resulting from others