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Simple English definitions for legal terms
immediate intent
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A quick definition of immediate intent:
Immediate intent refers to the state of mind someone has when they commit a wrongful act. It is the part of their intention that is related to the act itself. For example, if someone steals something, their immediate intent is to take the item without permission. Immediate intent is different from ulterior intent, which is the reason behind the act. For example, if the thief stole the item to sell it and make money, that would be their ulterior intent.A more thorough explanation:
Immediate intent refers to the state of mind accompanying a wrongful act, especially one that is forbidden by law. It is the mental resolution or determination to commit the act, regardless of the motive behind it. Immediate intent can be the sole or exclusive intent, one of several concurrent intents, the chief or dominant intent, or a determining intent.
For example, if someone intends to rob a bank, their immediate intent is to commit the act of robbery. The motive behind the act, such as financial gain or desperation, is immaterial when it comes to determining immediate intent.
Another example is larcenous intent, which is the state of mind of someone who knowingly takes away the goods of another without any claim or pretense of a right to do so, and intends to permanently deprive the owner of them or to convert the goods to personal use.
Understanding immediate intent is important in criminal law, as it helps to establish the mental state of the perpetrator and their culpability for the act committed.