Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: plain meaning
Actionable: A claim is actionable if it meets the requirements of a cause of action. This means that there must be enough evidence to prove that someone did something wrong and caused harm. For example, if someone hit you without your permission and you got hurt, you can make an actionable claim for battery. However, if too much time has passed since the incident, you may not be able to make an actionable claim. If your claim is not actionable, you cannot win in court.
Definition: A claim is actionable if it meets the requirements of a cause of action. This means that there must be sufficient circumstances to support the claim. For example, if someone intentionally and without your consent made contact with you and you suffered harm from that contact, you may have an actionable claim for the tort of battery. However, if the statute of limitations has run out, your claim may not be actionable even if it would have been otherwise.
It is important for a claim to be actionable in order for you to win your case in court. If the court determines that your claim is not actionable, it may be dismissed.
Example: John is suing his former employer for wrongful termination. He claims that he was fired because of his race. In order for John's claim to be actionable, he must provide sufficient evidence to support his claim of racial discrimination. If he cannot provide enough evidence, his claim may not be actionable and his case may be dismissed.
Example: Sarah is suing her neighbor for damages to her property caused by a fallen tree. In order for Sarah's claim to be actionable, she must prove that her neighbor was negligent in maintaining the tree and that this negligence caused the tree to fall and damage her property. If she cannot prove these elements, her claim may not be actionable and her case may be dismissed.