Differences between intention and motive

Differences between Intention and Motive

Motive refers to the reason why the crime was committed. It is often the background of the suspect in committing the alleged crime. Motive is a psychological term.  Intention is the supposed action or purpose of the crime

1.     Intention in criminal law is always bad and evil, whereas motive may be good or bad.

2.     Intention is relevant in determining the question of criminal liability, whereas it is a general rule; man’s motive is irrelevant in determining the criminal liability. 

3.     Motive is the reason behind the intent while intent is the background of the committed crime.

4.     Intention is an element of a charged for crime, that element must be proved by the People beyond a reasonable doubt, however motives is not an element of the crimes charged.

5.     Motive is mainly in the field of psychology whereas intent is nestled in the field of law.

Sometimes the law does not support what we want it to support, but that is not the fault of the person answering the question, so please be courteous.

lawcare87@yahoo.com