State of Mind
/ˈsteɪt əv maɪnd/
Definitions
- (n.) The mental or emotional condition of a person at a particular time, important in determining intent or culpability in legal contexts.
The defendant's state of mind at the time of the crime was a key factor in the trial.
Related terms
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Commentary
State of mind is crucial in criminal and tort law to assess subjective elements like intent, knowledge, or recklessness.
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.