fraud

an (1) intentional misrepresentation or omission of a material fact made (2) with the intent to cause another to take some action which (3) he or she does to (4) his or her detriment. As a matter of law, the actual definition of fraud is defined by statute and case law and may vary somewhat between jurisdictions. While fraud is usually a matter for the law of civil harms (tort law) it can become a criminal matter in certain circumstances. Finally, the law makes distinctions between many types of commercial claims which are defined as puffing rather than actual fraud.

Having bought a mountain cabin for a weekend retreat, Fergus and Fiona discover severe structural termite damage. The damage had been concealed at the time of purchase with some decorative trim. Facing a repair bill that amounted to thousands of dollars, the weekenders consult an attorney to see if he felt they might sue the seller for fraud.