Which term refers to the specific reason for which an action is started, such as damages to an automobile?

• A. Cause of action
• B. Certification
• C. Chattel
• D. Codicil

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is cause of action—the specific reason a lawsuit is started. A cause of action is the legal theory and facts that justify suing and seeking relief. In a case about damages to a car, the cause of action would identify the particular fault or breach, such as negligence, that gives the plaintiff the right to damages. The car itself is merely property (a chattel), while the lawsuit rests on the legal theory and facts behind the claim. It's also possible to have multiple causes of action from the same incident if different theories apply. Certifications, chattel, and codicil refer to other concepts: certification is a credential or approval, chattel means movable personal property, and codicil is an amendment to a will.