Legal Terms
Legal paperwork uses specific words that mean specific things. This glossary defines them in everyday language and shows why each one matters inside an injury claim.
Causation
Causation is the link between the defendant's conduct and the injured person's harm.
ReadClaim Adjuster
The insurance company employee (or contractor) who investigates and evaluates your claim.
ReadComparative Fault
Comparative fault reduces an injured person's recovery when they were also partly at fault.
ReadDamages
'Damages' is the legal word for the money a court can order to make up for a loss.
ReadDemand Letter
A demand letter formally asks the insurer for a specific settlement amount, supported by evidence of the claim.
ReadDuty of Care
Duty of care is the legal obligation to act with reasonable caution toward others.
ReadEvidence
Evidence is any information presented to prove what happened. In an injury case, paper evidence usually beats memory.
ReadLiability
Liability is legal responsibility — the obligation to pay for harm someone else suffered.
ReadNegligence
Negligence is the legal theory behind most injury claims — failing to act as a reasonably careful person would have.
ReadSettlement
A settlement is an agreement to resolve a claim for a specific amount, in exchange for a release of liability.
ReadStatute of Limitations
The statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. Miss it and the claim is usually gone forever.
ReadTort
A tort is a civil wrong that causes harm — the legal family that personal injury law belongs to.
ReadGeneral information only. This page explains common concepts in plain language. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and change over time. For any specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.