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Simple English definitions for legal terms
aid or abet
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A quick definition of aid or abet:
Aid or Abet: To help someone commit a crime or make it easier for them to do so. This is against the law in most places. Another way to say it is "aid and abet" or "counsel and procure." If you help someone do something wrong, you could be considered an "aider and abettor." The words "aid" and "abet" are sometimes used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings. "Aid" means to assist or help, while "abet" means to encourage or instigate.
A more thorough explanation:
Aid or abet means to assist or facilitate the commission of a crime, or to promote its accomplishment. It is a crime in most jurisdictions. The terms "aid and abet" and "aider and abettor" are often used interchangeably, although they are not synonymous. To "aid" is to assist or help another, while to "abet" means to encourage, advise, or instigate the commission of a crime.
1. John gave his friend a ride to the bank, knowing that his friend was planning to rob it. John is aiding and abetting the crime.
2. Sarah told her boyfriend how to break into her neighbor's house and steal their jewelry. Sarah is aiding and abetting the crime.
3. Tom provided his brother with a fake ID to use to buy alcohol, knowing that his brother was underage. Tom is aiding and abetting the crime.
These examples illustrate how aiding and abetting involves actively helping someone commit a crime or encouraging them to do so. Even if the person does not directly participate in the crime, they can still be held responsible for aiding and abetting it.