Define: Joint Tortfeasors

Joint tortfeasors are two or more individuals or entities who act together in committing a wrongful act or tortious conduct that results in harm or injury to another party. In legal terms, they are jointly liable for the damages caused by their wrongful actions, regardless of the degree of participation or fault of each individual tortfeasor. This joint liability means that the injured party can pursue claims against any or all of the joint tortfeasors to recover compensation for the damages suffered. Joint tortfeasors may be jointly and severally liable, meaning that each tortfeasor can be held responsible for the full amount of damages, regardless of their individual share of fault. This allows the injured party to seek full compensation from any one of the joint tortfeasors, who may then seek contribution or indemnification from the other tortfeasors for their respective shares of liability. Understanding joint tortfeasors is important in cases involving multiple defendants, as it affects the legal rights and obligations of the parties involved in seeking or defending against claims for damages arising from tortious conduct.

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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.