Principles that govern relationships between people, where no crime has been committed.

When a large group of plaintiffs sues a large group of defendants naming a representative in place of the entire group. Examples would be the tobacco industry suits and the suits against the drug manufacturers of the popular diet medications, such as fen-phen.

A failure to act reasonably in a situation. Doing something carelessly or failing to do something, i.e. driving without your headlights on.

Damages awarded to punish the defendant.

This would generally be money awarded over and above medical costs and lost wages.

A loss of companionship and care for the victim’s marital partner.

A defense to negligence stating that the plaintiff’s negligence contributed to their injuries.

Conduct intended to harm another person or their property. Examples include fraud, misrepresentation and slander.

Not necessarily. You must first prove the grocery store either created a hazardous situation or had previous knowledge of it. If you can prove both these things, the amount of your “award” will be directly related to your injury, medical costs, and loss of income.

This is a big misconception. If you don’t suffer an injury or incur financial losses, chances are slim that you’ll collect any monetary award.