Attempts - Case Law

Question 1

LEGALLY POSSIBLE

(PHYSICALLY IMPOSSIBLE) - R v RING

Answer 1

The pickpocket attempting to steal money although none was there to steal.
Physically impossible but still liable.

Question 2

R v JAY

Answer 2

Receiving of grass clippings believing they are cannabis

Question 3

LEGALLY IMPOSSIBLE - R v DONNELLY

Answer 3

Attempted receiving – found not guilty because the property which he intended to receive had been restored to the owner.

Question 4

ATTEMPT - R v HARPUR

Answer 4

The Court may “have regard to the conduct viewed cumulatively up to the point when the conduct in question stops …the defendant’s conduct [may] be considered in its entirety. Considering how much remains to be done … is always relevant, though not determinative.”