Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A common scheme is the same thing as a common design. It means that something has been planned or created in a similar way to something else.
Definition: A common scheme is a plan or design that is shared among multiple individuals or groups. It is often used in legal contexts to describe a pattern of behavior that is similar among different cases.
Example: In a fraud case, the prosecutor may argue that the defendant used a common scheme to deceive multiple victims. For example, the defendant may have used a similar sales pitch or promised the same false returns to each victim.
Explanation: The example illustrates how a common scheme can be used to show a pattern of behavior. By demonstrating that the defendant used a similar approach with each victim, the prosecutor can argue that the defendant had a deliberate plan to defraud people. This can be helpful in proving intent and establishing a pattern of criminal behavior.