Define: Cotortfeasor

Cotortfeasor
Cotortfeasor
Quick Summary of Cotortfeasor

A cotortfeasor refers to an individual who, in collaboration with another person, engages in wrongful actions that result in harm to someone else. This implies that both individuals bear equal responsibility for the harm inflicted. Also known as a tort-feasor.

Full Definition Of Cotortfeasor

A cotortfeasor is someone who, in collaboration with another person, engages in a wrongful act that causes harm to someone else. This can include acts of negligence or intentional harm. For instance, if two individuals conspire to commit fraud and one carries out the fraudulent act while the other assists in planning, they are both considered cotortfeasors. Similarly, if two people drive recklessly and cause an accident, they are both cotortfeasors. These examples demonstrate how multiple individuals can collaborate to commit a wrongful act that results in harm to others. Even if one person is the primary perpetrator, the other individual who aided in planning or facilitating the act is also accountable for the resulting harm.

Cotortfeasor FAQ'S

A cotortfeasor refers to a person who is jointly responsible for committing a tort, which is a civil wrong that causes harm or injury to another person.

Yes, a cotortfeasor can be held liable for the actions of another person if they were actively involved in committing the tort or if they had knowledge of the tort and provided substantial assistance or encouragement.

The terms cotortfeasor and joint tortfeasor are often used interchangeably and refer to individuals who share liability for committing a tort. There is no significant legal distinction between the two terms.

Yes, a cotortfeasor can be held liable for the full amount of damages caused by the tort, regardless of the degree of their involvement. Each cotortfeasor is jointly and severally liable, meaning they can be held individually responsible for the entire amount of damages.

Yes, a cotortfeasor can seek contribution from other cotortfeasors to share the financial burden of the damages. This allows each cotortfeasor to pay their fair share based on their proportionate fault or level of involvement in the tort.

Yes, a cotortfeasor can still be held liable even if they were unaware of the tort being committed. If they were part of a joint enterprise or acting in concert with the tortfeasor, they can be held responsible for the tort.

Yes, a cotortfeasor can be held liable even if they did not directly cause the harm. As long as they were involved in the tort or provided substantial assistance or encouragement, they can be held responsible for the resulting damages.

If a cotortfeasor withdraws from the tortious activity before it is completed, they may be able to avoid liability for any subsequent harm caused. However, if they had already committed a tort or contributed significantly to its commission, they may still be held liable for their prior actions.

If a cotortfeasor can prove that they were acting under duress or coercion, it may be a valid defence to liability. However, the burden of proof lies with the cotortfeasor to demonstrate that their actions were not voluntary and that they were forced to participate in the tort.

Minors can be held liable for their tortious actions, including being a cotortfeasor. However, the extent of their liability may be limited due to their age and capacity to understand the consequences of their actions. The court may consider their age and level of maturity when determining their liability.

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This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

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