What defines the 'proximate cause' in a liability case?

Proximate cause in a liability case refers specifically to the concept of a direct or legal cause of harm. It establishes a clear link between the defendant's actions and the plaintiff's injury, demonstrating that the harm was a foreseeable result of the defendant's conduct. This means that for a defendant to be held liable, their actions must not only be a cause of the injury but also the legal basis for the claim, establishing a direct relationship where the harm was a foreseeable consequence of the defendant's actions. Understanding proximate cause is critical in legal contexts, as it helps to ascertain whether the defendant can be held accountable for the consequences of their actions based on the established legal standards.