Legal impossibility is a legal defense that occurs when a person attempts to commit an act that they believe to be illegal, but the act itself is not actually a crime. In other words, even if the person completes the act, it does not constitute a criminal offense. This concept is important in criminal law, particularly in cases involving attempts to commit a crime.
Legal impossibility is primarily used in criminal law, especially in cases involving the crime of attempt. This defense can be relevant in various legal contexts, including:
Users can find legal templates and forms related to criminal defense strategies through resources like US Legal Forms, which can assist individuals in navigating these complex legal situations.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A person attempts to sell a substance they believe to be illegal drugs, but the substance is actually legal. In this case, the defense of legal impossibility may apply.
Example 2: A person tries to pickpocket someone but mistakenly believes that the person has a wallet when they do not. If the act is not illegal based on the circumstances, this could also be a case of legal impossibility. (hypothetical example)
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Legal Impossibility Treatment |
|---|---|
| California | Recognizes legal impossibility as a valid defense. |
| New York | Similar recognition but with specific limitations on hybrid impossibility. |
| Texas | Legal impossibility is generally accepted, but case law can vary. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Impossibility | An attempt to commit an act that is not illegal. | Focuses on the legality of the act itself. |
| Factual Impossibility | An attempt to commit a crime that cannot be completed due to factual circumstances. | Relies on external factors preventing the crime, not on the legality of the act. |
If you believe that legal impossibility applies to your situation, consider the following steps:
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Legal impossibility occurs when a person attempts to commit an act that they believe is illegal, but the act itself is not a crime.