intent

In one sentence

The defendant's conscious purpose or knowledge that their actions would cause a particular result.

Plain English

Intent is the defendant's state of mind—what they meant to do or what they knew would happen as a result of their actions. For many crimes, the prosecution must prove not just that the defendant did the act, but that they did it on purpose or with knowledge of the consequences. Intent can be specific (wanting a particular outcome) or general (knowing an action is wrong), and it's different from motive, which is why someone committed the crime.

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Example

A person who shoots a gun directly at someone with the purpose of killing them has intent to kill. But someone who fires a gun into the air at a crowded concert, knowing bullets will come down, also has intent to cause serious harm even if they didn't specifically want to hit anyone.

Used in a sentence

“The prosecution argued that the defendant's intent to defraud was clear from the forged documents and false statements he made to investors.”

Related terms

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

The highest standard of proof required to convict a defendant in a criminal trial.

Circumstantial Evidence

Evidence that suggests guilt indirectly rather than proving it directly.

involuntary manslaughter

Causing someone's death without intent to kill, through reckless or negligent conduct.

Duress

Forcing someone to sign a contract through threats or coercion.

Mental Incapacity

Lacking the mental ability to understand a contract's nature, terms, or consequences.

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.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

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.