Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: prior publication
Cruelty to animals is when someone hurts or causes an animal to feel pain or suffer. This is against the law in many places and can be punished with fines or even going to jail. It's important to treat animals with kindness and give them the things they need, like food and water, to live a good life.
Definition: Cruelty to animals is when someone intentionally or carelessly causes an animal to suffer or die. This is considered a crime in many places, and the laws can vary depending on where you live. For example:
Some states consider it even worse if someone intentionally hurts or kills an animal. This is called aggravated cruelty to animals, and it's a felony.
Examples of cruelty to animals include beating a dog, leaving a cat without food or water for days, or intentionally running over a squirrel with a car. These actions cause pain and suffering to the animals, and are considered crimes in many places.