An intentional tort is a willful act that violates a patient's rights. Willful and intentional means that the act was done knowingly and on purpose.Two categories of torts affecting nursing practice are intentional torts and unintentional torts. Meris covers types of intentional and unintentional torts, and the important points to know about being a mandated reporter. A Fairfax medical malpractice lawyer with our firm works on a contingent fee basis and offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case. Torts can range from bodily injury to negligence to defamation, though these charges are all brought in civil rather than criminal court. Claims against nursing homes are for falls, bed sores, lack of hydration or other forms of neglect. Patients have a right to treatment with respect.