But For Rule Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term But For Rule.

But For Rule (n)

The But For Rule, used in the legal context, is a way of determining causation. It is primarily used to establish whether a defendant's actions directly resulted in a particular event or harm. This rule states that if the event would not have occurred 'but for' the defendant's actions, then they can be held responsible for it. It's a way of demonstrating that the defendant is the necessary cause of the harm or event.