Introduction to Tort Law

Tort law deals with most civil suits and encompasses a wide range of scenarios that may involve lawsuits, including car accidents, defamation, trespassing and more. Defining a ‘tort’ can be challenging but they typically involve the violation of a general obligation established by civil law. Study Hub designed this civil law course to provide you with a strong foundation in the core concepts, principles and practices of tort law. We first explore the definition and nature of ‘tort law’ and describe its purpose and significance in contemporary legal systems.

The course explores the historical development of tort law and its various sources, including legal doctrines, statutes and judicial decisions and precedents. We examine various types of torts (including intentional torts, negligence and ‘strict liability’) and analyse each in detail while discussing the principles that govern them. This civil law course then identifies a range of defences to torts, which are legal arguments used to justify or excuse the defendant's actions and may negate or reduce their liability for harm caused. This affects the size of settlements arising from lawsuits.

We got through various tort remedies that courts may choose, including damages, injunctions and restitution. Lastly, we examine landmark cases that established the principles of tort law. We explain how case legislation and lawsuits both play vital roles in shaping and refining the law of torts and their broader legal landscape. This course has no prerequisites and suits law students, attorneys looking to refresh or expand their skills or anyone interested in the legal system and lawsuits. We provide a foundation of knowledge that you can apply in your personal and professional life. Sign up to learn how tort law offers you the opportunity to pursue civil justice in order to protect your rights and interests.