In legal terms, what does "causation" refer to?

Causation in legal terms is fundamentally concerned with the link between an individual's actions and the outcomes that result from those actions. In the context of criminal law, to establish causation is critical because it helps determine whether the defendant's conduct can be directly connected to the harm or consequence that occurred. This principle serves to ensure that an individual is only held criminally liable for actions that directly contributed to the detrimental results experienced by the victim.

For example, in a homicide case, it must be demonstrated that the defendant's actions were a significant factor in bringing about the victim's death. Without establishing this relationship, it becomes challenging to hold the defendant accountable for the consequences arising from their actions. Thus, understanding causation is essential for assessing the legitimacy of the charge and ensuring that justice is served in a way that is fair and grounded in the realities of the situation.