General Defenses: How to Fight Back
If you’re the one being sued, the law provides “shields” to protect you. These are known as
General Defenses in Torts.
| Defense | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Volenti Non Fit Injuria | "To a willing person, injury is not done." | A spectator hit by a ball at a cricket match. |
| Vis Major (Act of God) | An extraordinary occurrence of nature that couldn't be foreseen. | An unprecedented flood washing away a dam. |
| Private Defense | Using reasonable force to protect yourself or property. | Pushing away someone who is trying to punch you. |
| Statutory Authority | If an act is authorized by a law, it's not a tort. | Noise from a railway line authorized by Parliament. |