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Simple English definitions for legal terms
Mayhem
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A quick definition of Mayhem:
Term: Mayhem
Definition: Mayhem is a serious crime that involves intentionally hurting someone in a way that disables or disfigures them. This used to be a crime that was punished by law, but in some places, it is no longer considered a crime. In some places, it is still a crime if the injury is permanent and causes disfigurement.
A more thorough explanation:
Mayhem is a serious crime that was recognized in common law. It involves intentionally causing harm to someone by dismembering them or disabling a part of their body that is useful for fighting. In some states, it also includes causing permanent disfigurement.
- Cutting off someone's arm or leg
- Blinding someone by damaging their eyes
- Breaking someone's jaw so they can't fight back
These examples illustrate how mayhem involves causing serious and permanent harm to someone's body. It is not just about hurting someone in a fight, but about disabling them in a way that affects their ability to defend themselves in the future.