What defines an intentional act in terms of tort law?

An intentional act in tort law is characterized by actions taken with the purpose of causing harm or understanding that such harm is likely to occur. This implies that the individual who perpetrates the act has a specific intention to commit a wrong that the law recognizes as a violation.

When someone commits a wrong with intent, it reflects a deliberate choice to engage in a behavior that results in injury or damage to another person or their property. This distinguishes such acts from those that are unintentional, where harm occurs without any deliberate action to cause it, such as negligence or accidents. Understanding that tort law seeks to assign liability based on the intentionality behind actions helps clarify the relationship between the perpetrator's intent and the resultant harm.

Thus, the focus on intent is crucial, as it establishes the foundation for liability in tort cases where a party has knowingly and willingly engaged in conduct that breaches legal standards.