Crime is not an instantaneous event but a process that unfolds in identifiable stages. To effectively comprehend criminal liability, it is important to understand these stages and recognize the point when mere intention transforms into a punishable attempt.
The Four Pillars of Crime
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Intention (Mens Rea): Every crime begins in the mind. Intention refers to the mental decision to commit an offense. It is the first internal step, where a person formulates a purpose to violate the law.
