“cause of action”

This page shows official legal definitions of “cause of action” from courts and ministries of justice in multiple countries. Definitions are listed in order of reading level to help with both basic understanding and deeper context.

Jurisdiction: Australia Australia

The legal basis by which a person or party brings legal action against another. The cause of action can be set out in legislation or by the common law.

Source: Law Handbook Glossary (Legal Services Commission of South Australia)
Jurisdiction: United States United States

A legal claim.

Source: Glossary of Legal Terms (United States Courts)