What is "Bailment" in Tort Law?

Bailment in Tort Law refers to a legal relationship involving the temporary transfer of possession of property from one party (the bailor) to another (the bailee) for a specific purpose while retaining ownership. This arrangement allows the bailee to possess and use the property, but with the understanding that the property will be returned to the bailor once the purpose is fulfilled or the designated time period has expired.

In a bailment scenario, the bailee is responsible for the care of the property, and liability may arise if the property is damaged or lost due to the bailee's negligence. This concept is important in various contexts, such as when personal property is entrusted to a repair shop, dry cleaner, or storage facility.

Other choices present alternatives that do not accurately define bailment. A permanent transfer of ownership signifies a sale, which contrasts with the temporary nature of a bailment. Conditional sales are structured transactions with obligations tied to the fulfillment of conditions, rather than an arrangement based purely on possession. Rental agreements imply the exchange of payment for the use of property over time, which does not capture the essence of bailment based on the return of the property in its original state or condition.