What do you call a person who commits a tort?

A person who commits a tort is referred to as a tortfeasor. This term specifically identifies someone who has engaged in a wrongful act that has resulted in harm or injury to another individual, thereby creating a civil liability. The tortfeasor's actions can lead to legal consequences, allowing the injured party to seek damages in a civil court.

In the context of a legal proceeding, the distinction between all the options is important. The defendant is typically the party being accused in a legal case, which could include tortfeasors but is broader and applies to criminal cases as well. The complainant is often synonymous with the plaintiff in some jurisdictions, referring to the individual who initiates the lawsuit. The plaintiff is the person who brings a case against another in a court, usually to seek compensation for damages caused by the tortfeasor's actions. Understanding these roles is essential in the realm of tort law and civil proceedings.