An intentional tort is a crime that is committed on purpose. A tort is a breach of law in a criminal manner, such as theft, conspiracy, or murder. The act of being intentional serves as the basis of determining the severity of the crime that a defendant is being charged with. For example, in a murder case, the defendant will be judged by whether or not the murder was predetermined, usually referred to as premeditated. If the tort committed is proven to be intentional, then the penalty is more severe.
Criminal or wrongful acts that fall into the category of intentional tort are those that cause suffering and harm. In order for an intentional tort to be valid, the basis of the tort has to be confirmed. There are three requirements for a tort to be validated. First, the plaintiff has to establish what the normal actions of the defendant should have been if the defendant had acted as a reasonable person. Secondly, the plaintiff needs to prove that the defendant did not act in that manner. Lastly, the plaintiff must prove that they suffered as a result of the defendant's actions.