What concept protects government entities from tort liability under specific conditions?

Sovereign immunity is the legal doctrine that protects government entities from being sued for tort liability under certain conditions. It originates from the principle that a sovereign entity, such as the state or federal government, cannot be sued without its consent. This concept is based on the idea that government entities should be free from legal action to perform their functions without the constant threat of litigation, allowing them to operate effectively in the public interest.

In many jurisdictions, sovereign immunity has exceptions, particularly when the government engages in activities that can be compared to those of a private citizen or when specific legislation waives this immunity in certain cases, such as for tortious actions carried out by government employees in the course of their duties. Understanding this concept is crucial for anyone working in law enforcement or emergency services, as it can impact the legal landscape surrounding public agency actions and the accountability of government employees.