What does the term "tort" refer to in civil law?

The term "tort" in civil law specifically refers to a wrongful act that causes harm or injury to another person, leading to civil liability. This encompasses a range of wrongful acts that can result in legal action, primarily aimed at compensating the injured party for their loss or damages. Examples of torts include negligence, defamation, assault, and trespassing, among others. The key aspect of tort law is that it seeks to provide a remedy to individuals who have suffered harm due to the wrongful actions of others, which distinguishes it from criminal law or contract law.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately define the term "tort." A legal term for a contract dispute refers to a specific type of case dealing with breach of contract rather than a tortious act. A formal accusation of a crime pertains to criminal law and does not involve civil liability. Lastly, a type of legal settlement typically involves the resolution of a dispute, which can occur in tort cases but does not define the nature of a tort itself. Thus, the definition of a tort as a wrongful act leading to civil liability is not only accurate but essential in understanding its function and scope within civil law.