attempt

In one sentence

Trying to commit a crime but failing to complete it.

Plain English

An attempt is when someone takes a substantial step toward committing a crime but doesn't actually finish it. For example, you might try to break into a house but get caught before you get inside, or you might point a gun at someone intending to shoot but the gun jams. Attempt is itself a crime, and you can be convicted of it even though the actual crime wasn't completed. The punishment is usually less than if you'd succeeded.

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Example

A man climbs through a window of a store after hours with the intent to steal. Before he can take anything, an alarm goes off and police arrive. He's arrested and charged with attempted burglary.

Used in a sentence

“She was convicted of attempted murder after she stabbed her ex-boyfriend, who survived the attack.”

Related terms

accomplice

Someone who knowingly helps another person commit a crime.

guilty plea

A defendant's admission in court that they committed the crime(s) charged, typically resulting in conviction without trial.

Innocent Until Proven Guilty

The legal principle that a defendant is presumed innocent unless the prosecution proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

incriminating statement

A statement made by someone that suggests they committed a crime or participated in criminal activity.

judgment

The court's final decision in a criminal case, determining guilt or innocence and imposing sentence.

Discovery

The legal process where parties exchange information and evidence before trial.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.