causation
Definition
Causation is the legal requirement that someone's actions or negligence directly caused the harm or damage being claimed in a lawsuit. It's not enough to show that someone did something wrong and that you suffered a loss, because you also have to prove that the wrongful act actually caused your specific harm.
Example
If a contractor leaves a wet floor unmarked in your shop and a customer slips and breaks their wrist, causation connects the contractor's failure to post a warning sign directly to the customer's injury.
Watch Out
Even when fault seems obvious, the other side may argue that something else caused the harm, so documenting the direct connection between the wrongful act and your damages is critical from day one.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.