Crime: Legal Definition, Illegality and Spectrum of Crimes
What is Crime? Crime is a socially constructed legal concept that refers to conduct which is prohibited by law, punishable by the state, and recognised…
Author: Ben Shaw-Parker, Ph.D.
Ben is a university law professor. He has an LLM in Public International Law and a Doctorate in Humanitarian Law. Ben's specialty is in the area of Human Rights, Crime Law, Socio-legal Studies, Common Law, Comparative Law, Public Law and Environmental Law. He has contributed to several law journals.
Intent: Legal Definition Under Crime, Tort and Contract Law
What is Intent? Intent refers to a person’s state of mind in wanting, deciding, or desiring to commit a particular act. Intent is the deliberate…
Trial: Legal Definition, Trial Stages and Jury System
What is a Trial? A trial is a formal judicial proceeding wherein evidence is examined and disputes are resolved based on the principles of law…
Court: Legal Definition, Types of Courts, Court Functions and Authority
What is a Court? A court is a judicial institution where disputes are adjudicated, laws are interpreted, and justice is administered by judges and/or magistrates…
Court Order: Legal Definition, Temporary and Permanent Court Order, Restraining Order and Mandamus
What is a Court Order? A court order is a legally binding directive issued by a judicial authority requiring parties to adhere to specific terms,…
Prosecutorial Misconduct: Legal Definition, Withholding Evidence, Judicial Oversight and Liability
What is Prosecutorial Misconduct? Prosecutorial misconduct refers to illegal or unethical actions taken by a prosecutor that breach their duties or violate the rights of…
Criminal Justice System: Legal Definition, Arraignment, Trial, Sentencing and Appeals
What is Criminal Justice System? The criminal justice system is a structured set of legal and administrative entities responsible for enforcing laws, adjudicating crimes, and…
Capital Murder vs First-Degree Murder: Legal Definition, Premeditation, Penalty and Defences
What is Capital Murder and First-Degree Murder? Capital murder is a crime for which the perpetrator may be sentenced to the death penalty due to…
Voluntary vs Involuntary Manslaughter: Legal Definition, Intent, Mental State and Defences
What is Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter? Voluntary manslaughter involves intentionally killing another person in the “heat of passion” due to provocation. In contrast, involuntary manslaughter…
Infraction: Legal Definition, Severity and Penalties
What is an Infraction? An infraction is a breach or violation of a specific law or regulation, often considered a minor offence in legal contexts,…