Question

What is the significance of a substantial step in criminal law?

1) It indicates the intent to commit a crime
2) It is a completed crime
3) It is a preparatory act that does not indicate intent
4) It is a defense in criminal cases

Answer 1

A substantial step in criminal law refers to a preparatory act that indicates the intent to commit a crime, but it is not a completed crime itself. It is a significant action that demonstrates a clear intention to carry out the illegal act.

Step-by-step explanation:

In criminal law, a substantial step refers to a preparatory act that indicates the intent to commit a crime. It is not a completed crime itself, but rather a significant action that demonstrates a clear intention to carry out the illegal act. For example, if someone purchases materials with the intention to build a bomb, that would be considered a substantial step towards the crime of terrorism.