A. Definition of tort: There is no single definition of “tort.” The most we can say is that: (1) a tort is a civil wrong committed by one person against another; and (2) torts can and usually do arise outside of any agreement between the parties.
B. Categories: There are three broad categories of torts, and there are individual named torts within each category:
1. Intentional torts: First, intentional torts are ones where the defendant desires to bring about a particular result. The main intentional torts are:
a. Battery.
b. Assault.
c. False imprisonment.
d. Infliction of mental distress.
2. Negligence: The next category is the generic tort of “negligence.” Here, the defendant has not intended to bring about a certain result, but has merely behaved carelessly. There are no individually-named torts in this category, merely the general concept of “negligence.”