In tort law, what is the term for the ability to act contrary to another's rights without legal repercussions?

In tort law, the term that defines the ability to act contrary to another's rights without facing legal repercussions is known as privilege. Privilege refers to a situation where an individual has the legal right to engage in conduct that would typically be considered a violation of someone else's rights. This can arise in certain legal contexts, such as self-defense or the performance of a public duty, where the act is deemed socially or legally acceptable despite infringing on another's rights.

The concept of privilege is significant because it delineates the boundaries within which individuals can act without facing civil liability. For instance, an attorney may have the privilege to disclose certain information under the attorney-client relationship for public safety reasons, thus shielding them from liability that would normally arise from breaches of confidentiality.

Understanding privilege is essential in tort law as it assists legal professionals in identifying when actions that might otherwise lead to liability are justified or required by law. This grasp of privilege ensures that individuals can exercise their rights while simultaneously balancing the rights of others within the legal framework.