offense

noun | play \ə-ˈfens\ | of·fense

1. : a violation of the law; especially : a criminal act nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy —U.S. Constitution amend. V — see also lesser included offense : a criminal act nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy —U.S. Constitution amend. V — see also lesser included offense

2. : an intentional unlawful act that causes damage to another and for which the law imposes an obligation for damages — compare quasi contract at contract, quasi-offense

   Note: Breach of contract, offenses, quasi-offenses, and quasi contracts are the bases for civil liability under Louisiana civil law. Offenses and quasi-offenses are comparable to common-law torts.