Here's a breakdown:
* Misfeasance is distinct from malfeasance, which refers to the performance of an illegal act, and nonfeasance, which refers to the failure to perform a legal duty.
* Misfeasance involves a lawful act, but one that is performed improperly.
* Examples:
* A doctor performing surgery with inadequate sterilization techniques, leading to an infection.
* A construction worker failing to secure scaffolding properly, causing a collapse.
* A teacher providing incorrect information to students, leading to academic errors.
Key characteristics of misfeasance:
* It involves a legal act.
* The act is performed incorrectly or negligently.
* The improper performance leads to harm or damage.
Misfeasance can have legal consequences, including civil lawsuits for negligence or professional malpractice.