In legal terms, what is a tort?

A tort is defined as a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to another individual, for which the injured party has the right to seek compensation through a legal action. This encompasses a wide range of actions, such as negligence, intentional infliction of harm, and strict liability offenses. The primary objective of tort law is to provide relief to the injured party and to deter others from committing similar harmful acts.

Option B accurately reflects this definition, as it emphasizes the aspect of civil wrongs and the possibility of awarding damages to the victim. This establishes the basis for individuals to hold others accountable and seek monetary compensation for losses they have sustained due to another's actions.

In contrast, the other options describe different legal concepts. A breach of contract pertains specifically to violations of the terms of an agreement between parties and does not encompass the broader implications of tort law. A criminal offense involves actions that are considered harmful to society as a whole, leading to state prosecution, which differs significantly from the civil nature of torts. Lastly, a negotiation between parties for resolution pertains to alternative dispute resolution methods that may be utilized to settle conflicts, rather than establishing liability or awarding damages for wrongs committed.