When can a defendant seek contribution from another joint defendant?

The correct answer aligns with the principle of contribution in tort law, which allows a defendant to seek reimbursement from another joint defendant when they have paid more than their fair share of the judgment. This is based on the idea of fairness and equity, ensuring that the financial burden of the judgment is shared appropriately among all responsible parties.

In many jurisdictions, if one defendant is found to be liable and pays a judgment that exceeds what would be their equitable share, they are entitled to seek contribution from other joint tortfeasors. This mechanism prevents one defendant from bearing the entire financial burden if multiple parties are equally responsible for the harm caused.

The other options do not correctly reflect the circumstances under which contribution is typically sought. For instance, if a defendant has not paid any share of the judgment, there would be no basis for seeking contribution since they have not incurred any loss that needs to be compensated. Similarly, if one defendant has been found not liable, they do not have any responsibility for the judgment, and thus cannot be compelled to contribute. Additionally, the nature of the tort (whether intentional or not) does not negate the ability to seek contribution based on the financial obligations related to a judgment; contribution is primarily concerned with the amounts paid rather than the nature