Elements of a Crime
By: THE Jacob Bill
Awareness of Duty
People must be aware that they were supposed to do something in order to be charged with not doing something. People are expected to know all laws and statutes. For example, a person cannot say they are innocent of speeding because they didnt know the speed limit.
Violation of Duty
If the law is on the books and you break it, there is no need to establish the element existed until you go to court and pay your fines. For example, a medical caretaker not taking responsible care of a person who they were hired to provide care for.
Criminal Intent
The final element to be examined, described as the persons state of mind. Can be used to determine guilt or innocence. For example, if a person didn't mean to steal something from a store, verdict will answer the guilt or innocence.