The elements, the controlling cases, the practical note. So you know what to ask, what to argue, and what your opposing counsel will say.
A failure to act with reasonable care that causes foreseeable harm.
Most personal-injury, slip-and-fall, and car-accident claims are negligence theories.
Knowing false statement of material fact intended to induce reliance, on which the victim reasonably relied, causing damages.
Each element must be pleaded with particularity (Fed. R. Civ. P. 9(b) or state equivalent).
Extreme and outrageous conduct that intentionally or recklessly causes severe emotional distress.
Bar is high — must be conduct beyond all bounds of decency, not mere insult or annoyance.
False statement of fact about plaintiff, published to a third party, causing reputational harm.
Truth is an absolute defense. Public figures must prove actual malice (knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard).
Property owner's duty to keep premises reasonably safe for those legally on the property.
Modern trend (per Rowland) is to apply ordinary negligence regardless of plaintiff's status. Traditional states still use the invitee/licensee/trespasser distinction.
One party fails to perform an obligation that the contract required, causing the other party damages.
Statute of frauds may require written contract for certain agreements (land, year+ duration, $500+ goods).
Discharge that violates public policy, contract, or anti-discrimination law.
At-will employment is the default — wrongful-termination claims usually need a public-policy hook (whistleblower, discrimination, refusal to commit illegal act).
Federal claim against a state/local government actor for violating a constitutional or federal-statutory right.
Qualified immunity is the major defense — officials are protected unless the right violated was 'clearly established' at the time.
A person in a position of trust acted in their own interest to the principal's detriment.
Partners, corporate officers, agents, trustees, attorneys, and financial advisors all owe fiduciary duties.
Defendant received a benefit at plaintiff's expense that it would be unjust to retain.
Equitable remedy — usually only available when no express contract governs.
Educational reference. Not legal advice. Each doctrine has state-by-state variations — consult a licensed attorney for your specific matter.