Define: Harm

Harm
Harm
Quick Summary of Harm

Harm refers to the occurrence of a negative event that results in injury or damage. This can manifest as physical harm, which entails bodily pain or illness, or material harm, which involves destruction of property. Social harm, on the other hand, pertains to the negative impact of an unlawful act on a group of individuals. For instance, stealing from a store causes harm to both the establishment and its employees.

Full Definition Of Harm

Harm can be categorized as injury, loss, or damage that results in material or tangible detriment. It can be accidental or not caused by any wrongful act. Harm can manifest as physical pain, illness, or impairment of the body, as well as any physical impairment of land, chattels, or the human body. Social harm pertains to the negative impact on a social interest protected by criminal law. For instance, slipping and falling on a wet floor and sustaining an injury is an example of accidental harm. Bodily harm refers to physical pain or impairment, such as a broken bone or a cut. On the other hand, serious bodily harm denotes a more severe form of physical injury, such as permanent disability or disfigurement. Social harm occurs when a crime is committed that affects a protected social interest, like a hate crime targeting a specific group of people. These examples illustrate the various types of harm and their classifications. Accidental harm is unintentional, while bodily harm and serious bodily harm pertain to physical injuries. Social harm encompasses any adverse effect on a protected social interest and is a broader concept.

Harm FAQ'S

Yes, you can file a lawsuit against someone who has caused harm to you or your property. However, the success of your case will depend on various factors, such as the extent of the harm, evidence of negligence or intentional wrongdoing, and the applicable laws in your jurisdiction.

Intentional harm refers to actions taken with the intent to cause harm or injury to another person or their property. Negligence, on the other hand, refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm or injury to another person or their property. Intentional harm requires intent, while negligence involves a lack of reasonable care.

Yes, as a pet owner, you can be held liable for harm caused by your pet. If your pet injures someone or damages their property, you may be responsible for compensating the victim for their losses. However, liability laws vary by jurisdiction, so it’s important to consult with a local attorney to understand your specific legal obligations.

Strict liability is a legal doctrine that holds a person or entity responsible for harm caused by their actions or products, regardless of fault or intent. In cases where strict liability applies, the injured party does not need to prove negligence or intent; they only need to demonstrate that the harm occurred as a result of the defendant’s actions or products.

In certain circumstances, parents can be held liable for harm caused by their minor children. This is known as parental liability. The extent of parental liability varies by jurisdiction, but it generally applies when the parent failed to exercise reasonable control or supervision over their child, resulting in harm to others.

The statute of limitations refers to the time limit within which a lawsuit must be filed. The specific statute of limitations for harm-related cases varies depending on the jurisdiction and the type of harm involved. It is crucial to consult with an attorney to determine the applicable statute of limitations in your case.

Yes, in certain circumstances, you may be able to seek compensation for emotional harm or distress. However, proving emotional harm can be challenging, as it often requires substantial evidence and expert testimony. Consulting with an attorney experienced in personal injury law can help you understand the viability of your claim.

In general, participants in sporting events or recreational activities assume some level of risk and may be required to sign liability waivers. However, if someone’s actions go beyond the inherent risks of the activity and cause harm to others, they may be held liable for their negligent or intentional conduct.

Yes, if you have been harmed by a defective product, you may be able to hold the manufacturer, distributor, or seller liable for your injuries. Product liability laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, you need to prove that the product was defective, the defect caused your harm, and you were using the product as intended or reasonably expected.

Yes, you can be held liable for harm caused by your online activities or social media posts. Defamation, invasion of privacy, copyright infringement, and cyberbullying are some examples of online activities that can lead to legal consequences. It is important to be mindful of the potential harm your online actions may cause and to act responsibly to avoid legal issues.

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Disclaimer

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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