Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Moral turpitude
Definition: When someone does something really bad that goes against what most people think is right. It's like breaking the rules of being a good person and it would make people really upset if they found out. In law, some crimes are considered worse than others because they involve moral turpitude. If a lawyer does something really bad, they might not be allowed to practice law anymore.
Moral turpitude is a term used to describe behavior that is considered wicked, deviant, and immoral. It refers to actions that violate the accepted standards of society and are considered unjust or unethical.
In criminal law, moral turpitude is used to categorize criminal activity. Crimes that involve moral turpitude are considered more serious than those that do not. However, the definition of moral turpitude is not always clear, as it can vary depending on cultural and societal norms.
For example, an act of moral turpitude could be something like fraud, theft, or embezzlement. These actions involve a breach of trust and a violation of the social contract between individuals and society.
In legal ethics, an attorney who commits an act of moral turpitude may face sanctions or even disbarment. This is because lawyers are held to a higher standard of conduct and are expected to uphold the law and act with integrity.
For instance, an attorney who engages in bribery or perjury would be committing an act of moral turpitude. These actions involve dishonesty and a disregard for the legal system, which undermines the trust and confidence that the public has in the legal profession.
Overall, moral turpitude refers to behavior that is considered morally reprehensible and goes against the accepted norms of society. It is a term that is used to categorize criminal activity and to hold individuals accountable for their actions.