Legal Definitions - lucri causa

Lucri causa is a Latin legal term that translates to "for the sake of gain." It describes an action or motive driven primarily by the desire to obtain a profit, advantage, or benefit, often financial in nature.

Historically, proving that an individual acted lucri causa was an essential component in establishing the crime of larceny (theft). Modern legal systems, however, generally no longer require this specific motive for a theft charge. Instead, the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property is usually sufficient. Nevertheless, the concept of acting "for the sake of gain" remains a significant factor in understanding motivation across various legal contexts, from criminal fraud to civil disputes.

• Example 1: A scam artist creates a sophisticated phishing scheme, sending emails designed to trick individuals into revealing their bank account details. Once obtained, the scam artist uses these details to transfer money into their own accounts.

  Explanation: The scam artist's entire operation, from designing the emails to executing the transfers, is motivated by the desire to gain money from unsuspecting victims. Their actions are undertaken lucri causa.

• Example 2: A former executive of a technology company downloads confidential client lists and proprietary software algorithms before resigning to join a direct competitor. The executive intends to use this stolen information to give their new employer a significant market advantage and increase their own compensation.

  Explanation: The executive's act of stealing the confidential data is driven by the aim to gain a competitive edge and financial profit for their new venture and themselves. This clearly demonstrates an action taken lucri causa.

• Example 3: A pharmaceutical company knowingly markets a drug for an "off-label" use (a use not approved by regulatory bodies) because they anticipate substantial additional sales and profits from this expanded market, despite potential risks to patients.

  Explanation: The company's decision to promote the drug for an unapproved use is primarily motivated by the desire to increase its revenue and market share. This illustrates a business decision made lucri causa.