California's Tort Law covers noncriminal, or civil, wrongdoings that cause harm or injury in some manner. It establishes grounds for a lawsuit.You usually have to file a tort claim within six months of the day you were harmed. The California Tort Claims Act sets out strict guidelines for filing your claim with a governmental entity. You must file: Within 6 months of the incident for:. Learn about the rules and procedures for filing a personal injury lawsuit against the state of California or a local California government. Cause of Action—Intentional Tort (PLD-PI-001(3)). Tells the court and the other side that you contend the other side intentionally caused you harm in some way. A tort is an act or omission that causes legally cognizable harm to persons or property. Each tribe with a casino is required to have a tort claim process for injured patrons and insurance coverage.