Malicious Intent
/məˈlɪʃəs ɪnˈtɛnt/
Definitions
- (n.) The deliberate intention to cause harm or injury to another person or property, often a necessary element in criminal offenses and torts.
The prosecutor must prove malicious intent to establish liability for the malicious prosecution claim.
Related terms
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Commentary
Malicious intent is a mental state explicitly requiring deliberate harmful purpose; its presence distinguishes intentional torts or crimes from negligent acts.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.