Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A general-intent crime is an act that is punishable by law and is considered a breach of legal duty. It is a type of crime that involves the idea of injury to the state or collective community. This type of crime is different from a wrong or tort and from a sin. The law recognizes two classes of crimes: serious crimes or felonies, and minor crimes or misdemeanors.
These examples illustrate how a general-intent crime can affect commerce and the property or revenues of a commercial establishment. They are punishable by law and are considered a breach of legal duty.