What is a critical factor in defining false imprisonment?

Defining false imprisonment revolves around the elements of intent and justification. False imprisonment occurs when an individual is confined against their will without legal justification or consent. The critical factor lies in the intention behind the confinement—the individual must have acted willfully to restrict another person’s freedom of movement without lawful excuse. This includes scenarios where someone is detained without probable cause or without the authority to do so, demonstrating a clear violation of personal liberty.

The justification for the confinement is also vital. If an individual is imprisoned with proper legal authority—such as a law enforcement officer detaining someone suspected of a crime—this does not constitute false imprisonment. Therefore, understanding the intent and the lack of legal justification helps clarify when false imprisonment occurs, making it a foundational aspect of this tort.