Defenses to Civil Liability
LegalMatch Law Library Managing Editor, Ken LaMance, Attorney at Law 
What are Defenses to Civil Liability?
There are several defenses an individual or organization can raise if a civil liability lawsuit is brought against him. Some common defenses include:
- Contributory Negligence - where the defendant will claim that the injured party contributed to his own harm, and thus the defendant should not be held liable. If the injured party was contributorily negligent then he will not be able to recover.
- Comparative Negligence - if a court determines that more than one party is liable for the harm caused, it may split the liability among the various liable parties. So one party may be responsible for 60% of the damages while another party will be liable for the remaining 40%. An example of comparative negligence is a car accident where one driver is driving too fast, and another is driving without headlights.
- Assumption of Risk - if a court determines that the injured party engaged in a dangerous activity, the court may find that he or she assumed the risks associated with the dangerous activity and is responsible for their injury. This defense is used infrequently now because of the development of the comparative negligence doctrine.
- Limitation on Liability Clauses - many contracts between parties contain limitation on liability clauses which protect one of the parties from liability in the event of injury or harm to the other party.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Claim One of these Defenses?
Civil lawsuits are very complicated and can be very costly. If a civil liability lawsuit has been brought against you, a personal injury attorney can advise you of your legal rights and defenses.
Consult a Lawyer - Present Your Case Now!
Last Modified: 01-26-2011 01:56 PM PST
