This article adopts a comparative approach to analyze the concept of causality in social action and its unintended consequences, illuminating the linkage between sociological and legal perspectives. From a sociological standpoint, causality is conceptualized as a systemic and networked process, implying that actions are shaped within a nexus of forces, structures, and relationships, and their outcomes are not necessarily aligned with the actors’ intentions. The differences and overlaps between the explanatory approach in sociology and the normative approach in law are discussed in the analysis of causality and social responsibility. Amidst this, unintended consequences are highlighted as a key element in social dynamics, demonstrating their role in connecting intent, action, structure, and rules. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the paper strives to offer novel analytical frameworks that transcend previous single-discipline studies, providing theoretical and practical implications for a simultaneous understanding of social and legal phenomena. Finally, suggestions for future research are proposed, including the analysis of legal cases, the study of the impact of new technologies, and the design of predictive models.