Cause in Fact
/ˈkɔːz ɪn fækt/
Definitions
- (n.) A factual cause or actual cause in tort law establishing that the defendant's conduct directly resulted in the plaintiff's harm.
The court found that the defendant's negligence was the cause in fact of the plaintiff's injury.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Cause in fact is often determined through the 'but-for' test, requiring that the harm would not have occurred but for the defendant's conduct.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.