Glossary of Tort Law Terms

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Lawsuit: A legal action started by a plaintiff against a defendant based on a complaint that the defendant failed to perform a legal duty, resulting in harm to the plaintiff.

Lemon Laws: Laws that require manufacturers to repair defective cars. If the repairs are not made within a reasonable amount of time and number of attempts, the manufacturer is required to refund the purchase price, less a reasonable amount for the use of the car.

Liability: Any legal responsibility, duty or obligation.

Libel: Defamatory (false and injurious) written statements or materials, including movies or photographs.

Lien: A claim against someone's property. A lien is instituted in order to secure payment from the property owner in the event that the property is sold. A mortgage is a common lien.

Liquidated Damages: The amount of money specified in a contract to be awarded in the event that the agreement is violated.