The Law Dictionary for Everyone
Deviant behavior is conduct that deviates from the societal norm. By this definition alone, deviance is neither good nor bad, but must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Such behavior may be described as “different,” or “unexpected,” and may elicit positive or negative responses from other people. Deviant behavior that becomes popularized, or seen as normal, is how societies change […]
Read moreThe term delinquency refers to either something that is late in being done, such as making a late credit card payment, or to improper or criminal behavior. In a legal context, delinquency is most often used in reference to the disorderly or illegal actions engaged in by a youth. Juvenile delinquency is grouped into two categories, one more serious than […]
Read moreThe term collusion refers to a secretive agreement, which is improper or illegal, between two or more parties to defraud someone, or to engage in some other illegal or illegitimate activity. Collusion may be engaged in by parties with conflicting interests in order to limit or remove the influence of a competitor. It may also be used in an attempt […]
Read moreCausation is a term used to refer to the relationship between a person’s actions and the result of those actions. In a legal sense, causation is used to connect the dots between a person’s actions, such as driving under the influence, and the result, such as an accident causing serious injuries. Establishing causation is not, in itself, enough to determine […]
Read moreCapital murder is a murder that subjects the perpetrator to the death penalty if found guilty. For this to apply, there has to have been some horrific extenuating circumstance, often called “special circumstance,” in addition to causing the death. This may include such things as murdering a police officer, murdering a child, or murdering multiple victims. To explore this concept, […]
Read moreBullying is the use of intimidation, coercion, threats, or force to dominate others. Bullying behaviors are often habitual, creating a long-term problem for victims. There are several types of bullying, though there is not federal law specifically defining bullying behaviors. Some states do have anti-bullying laws. To explore this concept, consider the following bullying definition. Definition of Bullying Noun The […]
Read moreWhite collar crime refers to non-violent crimes committed through deceptive practices, for the purpose of financial gain. Typically, white collar crimes are committed by business people who are able to access large amounts of money, though the term is sometimes applied to others who pilfer monies in other circumstances. White collar crimes are non-violent, and are committed by a broad […]
Read moreVoluntary manslaughter is a crime that occurs when someone kills another person with no prior intent to harm or kill, but under a sudden circumstance that made him mentally or emotionally distraught. Voluntary manslaughter is often referred to as killing in the “heat of passion.” The difference between voluntary manslaughter and murder is often the provocation to kill. To explore […]
Read moreThe term solicitation refers to a request for something, often money. Many people complain that their mailbox is full of solicitations from companies trying to sell them something, or charities asking for monetary donations. The term also applies to the act of appearing at people’s homes or businesses, usually uninvited, in an attempt to sell a product or service. In […]
Read moreA search warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement officials to search an individual’s private residence or other premises for evidence of a crime. The search warrant also allows law enforcement officials to confiscate any evidence they find that is related to the crime. Search warrants are made necessary by the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects […]
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