How does tort law differ from contract law?

Tort law and contract law are distinct branches of civil obligations, primarily differentiated by the source of the duty owed between parties.1

• Nature of the Obligation: Contract law governs promises that are enforceable by law, requiring mutual assent—typically an offer and acceptance—between parties. In contrast, tort law encompasses civil wrongs that are independent of contracts. It addresses harmful behavior, such as physical attacks, interference with property, or damage to reputation, for which the law imposes liability.21
• Purpose of Damages: The objective of damages in contract law is to provide the injured party the "benefit of the bargain," placing them in the position they would have occupied had the contract been fully performed. Conversely, the goal of tort damages is to restore the injured party to the position they were in before the wrongful act occurred, typically by compensating for losses that are a "natural and proximate" result of the injury.3
• Scope: While contract law focuses on the enforcement of specific agreements, tort law is concerned with liability for socially unacceptable behavior.21