Which term refers to the legal obligation to answer for one's actions?

• A. Duty
• B. Liability
• C. Negligence
• D. Fraud

Answer: (B)

Liability is the legal obligation to answer for the consequences of your actions. When a person’s actions or omissions cause harm or breach a duty, the law may hold them responsible and require compensation or penalties. In dentistry, professional liability (malpractice liability) means a clinician could be financially or legally responsible for damages if their conduct falls below the accepted standard of care.

A duty is simply an obligation to act in a certain way; negligence refers to failing to meet the standard of care; fraud involves intentional deception. These can contribute to liability, but the overarching idea of being legally accountable for the outcomes of your actions is best captured by liability.