The Law Dictionary for Everyone
Homicide is defined as the taking of a person’s life, regardless of the intent or the circumstances surrounding the death. This means that a homicide is not necessarily a murder, but may be caused by an accident, an execution, or even abortion. Homicide itself is not necessarily a crime, though the circumstances that resulted in the individual’s death may raise […]
Read moreLewd acts are defined as unlawful behaviors that are sexual in nature, performed with the intention of sexually arousing either the perpetrator or the person to whom the conduct is directed. Lewd acts are a crime in all jurisdictions, which may be considered misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the exact circumstances. To explore this concept, consider the following lewd acts […]
Read moreChild exploitation is the act of using a minor child for profit, labor, sexual gratification, or some other personal or financial advantage. Child exploitation often results in cruel or harmful treatment of the child, as the activities he or she may be forced to take part in can cause emotional, physical, and social problems. To explore this concept, consider the […]
Read moreCyberstalking refers to the crime of using the Internet, email, or other types of electronic communications to stalk, harass, or threaten another person. Cyberstalking most often involves sending harassing emails, instant or text messages, or social media posts, or creating websites for the sole purpose of tormenting the victim. To explore this concept, consider the following cyberstalking definition. Definition of […]
Read moreExpungement is the official sealing of an individual’s records of arrest and conviction. This must be done by a court of law, and serves the purpose of making such records unavailable to people doing a background check. Because most employers, and many landlords, commonly ask applicants if they have a criminal record, and may not hire or rent to someone […]
Read moreHabeas corpus is a legal action in which a prisoner challenges the authority of the jail or prison to continue holding him. This Latin term translates as, “you have the body,” and it allows incarcerated people to seek relief from unlawful confinement. Habeas corpus is a protection against illegal imprisonment, afforded to United States citizens as outlined in the Suspension […]
Read moreIdentity theft is the act of stealing another person’s personal identifying information in order to gain access to his financial resources, or obtain access to other benefits, such as money, credit, or insurance benefits. Identity theft, sometimes referred to as “identity fraud,” is a crime that carries serious consequences. To explore this concept, consider the following identity theft definition. Definition […]
Read moreIndecent exposure is the act of intentionally exposing one’s genitals in a public area. Indecent exposure is a crime, the laws of which vary by jurisdiction. In the majority of states, it is not required than someone actually observe the act, or see the perpetrator’s private parts, in order for the perpetrator to face criminal charges. To explore this concept, […]
Read moreHealth care fraud is a crime that involves misrepresenting information, concealing information, or deceiving a person or entity in order to receive benefits, or to make a financial profit. Both individuals and healthcare providers commit health care fraud, in a number of different ways. The laws regarding health care fraud vary by jurisdiction, though both state and federal laws are […]
Read moreRape is the forcing of someone to engage in sexual acts against his or her will. The term date rape refers to rape committed by a person who has had some sort of romantic relationship, or was on a date, with the victim. Date rape is most rampant among college and high school students, where the frequent overuse of alcohol […]
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