"But for" Test

What is "But for" Test?

Test used in determining tort liability by applying the criterion as to whether the plaintiff would not have suffered the wrong "but for" the action of the defendant. The test has been extensively modified and has so many exceptions that it is not generally applied in current tort litigation.

Further Reading

For more detailed information, see our related Torts terms:

• Breach of Duty
• Waiver as a Defense
• Loss of Earning Capacity
• Asbestos

Reviewed by

Stephanie Bagnall

Licensed Attorney and Legal Researcher

Stephanie Bagnall is a Georgia-licensed attorney and legal researcher with experience in accessibility law, compliance, employment law, and legal writing. She helps develop and review BarPrepHero's Legal Terms content for clarity, accuracy, and usefulness to bar exam students.

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