General Legal Terms

Defendant

The person or entity being sued in a civil lawsuit or accused in a criminal case.

In Personal Injury Cases

In personal injury lawsuits, the defendant is the party alleged to have caused the plaintiff's injuries through negligence or intentional conduct. This could be an individual, company, or government entity.

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Related Legal Terms

Plaintiff

The person or party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint against another party (the defendant) in civil court.

Tortfeasor

A person or entity who commits a tort (civil wrong) that causes injury or damage to another.

More General Legal Terms Terms

Plaintiff Tort Tortfeasor Statute Case Law Precedent

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