What is the primary focus of causation in fact?

Causation in fact concentrates on establishing a direct link between a defendant's actions and the injury sustained by the plaintiff. This aspect of causation is particularly crucial in tort law as it seeks to determine whether the defendant's conduct was a substantial factor in bringing about the harm experienced by the plaintiff. This involves demonstrating that the injury would not have occurred "but for" the defendant's actions.

In this context, material contribution signifies that the defendant's behavior played a significant role in the outcome, which aligns precisely with the focus of causation in fact. Identifying this connection is essential for holding a party accountable in legal proceedings. By proving that the injury was a direct result of a party’s actions, the court can establish liability, which is central to many legal claims.