Criminal Attempts

Question 1

Define section 1 of the criminal attempts act 1981

Answer 1

If, with intent to commit an offence to which this section applies a person does an act which is more than merely preparatory to the commission of the offence they are guilty of attempting to commit the offence.

Question 2

Describe the points to prove in an offence of criminal attempts

Answer 2

1. Intent - They must demonstrate their guilty intent by carrying out
   acts, and these must be more than just preparing to commit the full offence.
2. More than merelty preparatory - Actions must be shown to go beyond the preparation of the offence. The court must consider whether this is the final step before the offence is committed .
3. Attempting to commit - an offence cab be committed even though what the suspect attempts is impossible.