Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Common-law malice is when someone intends to do something wrong without any justification or excuse. It can also mean that someone recklessly disregards the law or someone's legal rights. It can be shown through external circumstances or knowledge that a statement is false. It is different from other types of malice, such as actual malice or implied malice.
Definition: Common-law malice is the intent, without justification or excuse, to commit a wrongful act. It can also refer to reckless disregard of the law or of a person's legal rights, or ill will and wickedness of heart.
For example, if someone intentionally harms another person without any valid reason, it can be considered common-law malice. This can include physical harm, emotional harm, or damage to property. Another example is if a company knowingly violates environmental regulations and causes harm to the environment and people living nearby, it can be considered common-law malice.
These examples illustrate how common-law malice involves intentional wrongdoing without any valid justification or excuse. It can cause harm to individuals or society as a whole, and is therefore considered a serious offense.