Which term best describes the intention behind tort reform?

The term that best describes the intention behind tort reform is focused on reducing excessive legal claims. Tort reform aims to address the perceived issue of frivolous or excessive lawsuits that contribute to a burden on the legal system and increase costs for individuals and businesses. Proponents believe that by implementing reforms such as caps on damages, stricter rules for filing lawsuits, or limitations on certain types of claims, the legal landscape can be made more predictable and manageable. This reduction in excessive claims is thought to foster a more efficient judicial process, ultimately benefiting the economy and allowing more resources to be directed toward legitimate claims.

The other options present alternative intentions but do not encapsulate the core aim of tort reform. For instance, while protecting consumers might be a beneficial outcome of some reforms, it is not the primary focus. The goal is not to eliminate all litigation risks, as that would undermine the legal recourse available to individuals; rather, it seeks to balance that risk. Improving contractual agreements is also not directly relevant to tort reform, which primarily deals with civil wrongs and liabilities rather than contract-related issues.