How is "malpractice" defined?

Malpractice is defined as a failure to meet a professional standard of care. This term is commonly used in the context of professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and accountants, where there is an established expectation for them to perform their duties competently and adhere to recognized standards within their field. When a professional’s actions fall short of these standards, resulting in harm or damage to a client or patient, it can be classified as malpractice.

This definition highlights the importance of competence and adherence to standards in professional settings, which is a critical element in assessing whether malpractice has occurred. The other options do not align with this meaning; for example, intentional wrongdoing refers more to criminal behavior rather than the negligence characteristic of malpractice.