Pecuniary gain refers to any financial benefit or monetary value that someone earns or receives. In the context of criminal law, it specifically relates to the financial or economic advantage that motivates a person to commit a crime. This term is often used to assess the extent of a crime's impact, particularly in cases involving theft, fraud, or other offenses where financial gain is a primary factor.
Pecuniary gain is primarily used in criminal law to evaluate the financial incentives behind criminal actions. It is relevant in various legal contexts, including:
Users may find legal forms related to pecuniary gain useful for filing claims or defenses in court, especially through resources like US Legal Forms, which offers templates created by legal professionals.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples illustrating pecuniary gain:
One relevant statute is Alaska Stat. § 12.55.185 (13), which defines "pecuniary gain" as the monetary value derived from the commission of an offense, minus any amounts returned to the victim or seized by authorities. Other states may have similar statutes, but specific definitions can vary.
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Definition of Pecuniary Gain |
|---|---|
| Alaska | Defined as the monetary amount derived from an offense, less restitution. |
| California | Similar definition, focusing on the financial benefit from criminal activity. |
| New York | Includes any economic advantage gained through illegal means. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Pecuniary Gain | Financial benefit derived from a crime. |
| Restitution | Compensation paid to a victim for losses incurred. |
| Profit | General term for financial gain, not necessarily linked to illegal activity. |
If you are involved in a legal matter where pecuniary gain is relevant, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
Any financial benefit or monetary value received through illegal actions.