Simple English definitions for legal terms
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General malice is when someone intends to do something wrong without any good reason or excuse. It can also mean that someone is not following the law or respecting other people's rights. This kind of malice comes from a bad heart and can be used to hold someone responsible for their actions. It is different from particular malice, which is when someone intends to harm a specific person, and from universal malice, which is when someone is willing to take a life without caring who the victim is.
Definition: General malice is a type of malice that is necessary for any criminal conduct and is not directed at a specific person.
Examples: If someone sets fire to a building without caring who may be inside, that is an example of general malice. Another example is if someone drives recklessly without regard for the safety of others on the road.
These examples illustrate the definition of general malice because in both cases, the person is acting with a reckless disregard for the safety and well-being of others. They are not specifically targeting anyone, but their actions could harm anyone who happens to be in the vicinity. This type of behavior is considered criminal because it puts others at risk and shows a lack of concern for their safety.