In the context of torts, which term refers to a wrongful act leading to civil legal liability?

The term that refers to a wrongful act leading to civil legal liability is indeed tort. A tort is a civil wrong that results in harm or injury to another person, for which the injured party may seek compensation through a lawsuit. Torts can arise from various actions, including negligence, intentional wrongdoing, or strict liability, and are distinct from criminal acts, which are prosecuted by the state and involve public offenses against society.

In contrast, a crime pertains to actions that violate laws and are punishable by the state, often resulting in criminal charges and potential penalties like imprisonment. A contract, on the other hand, is an agreement between parties that creates legal obligations and liabilities, typically focused on the enforcement of mutual promises rather than wrongful acts. Malpractice specifically refers to professional negligence, typically by healthcare providers or other professionals, leading to harm. While malpractice is a type of tort, the broader category encompassing various wrongful acts is most accurately identified as a tort.