Law terms
What's the definition of bribery?
Bribery is the act of offering, giving, or soliciting something of value to improperly influence the actions of someone who holds a public or legal duty. It involves using money, gifts, or favors to persuade a person to act in a way that is not honest or in the public interest, and it is a crime for both the giver and receiver. This illegal and unethical practice can occur in politics, business, or everyday situations and undermines fairness and accountability.
What's the definition of Perjury?
Perjury is the crime of knowingly making a false statement under oath, whether in a court of law, grand jury, or other official proceeding. To be considered perjury, the false statement must be material, meaning it was capable of influencing the outcome of the legal matter, and made with the intent to mislead. Conviction for perjury can lead to fines and imprisonment, and the penalties vary depending on the jurisdiction.
What's the definition of Insanity?
Insanity is a defense used when a defendant argues that a mental disease or defect prevented them from understanding the nature and wrongfulness of their actions at the time of the crime. This defense is not a medical diagnosis but a legal standard, and it requires a severe mental impairment that makes the person incapable of distinguishing reality from fantasy or unable to control their behavior.
What's the definition of the M'naghten Rule
The M'Naghten rule, also known as the "right-wrong test," is a legal standard for the insanity defense. It states that a defendant is not criminally responsible for a crime if, due to a mental disease or defect at the time of the act, they were unable to understand the nature and quality of their actions or did not know that their actions were wrong. This rule was established in 1843 after Daniel M'Naghten's acquittal for murder and remains a common standard in many US states and other jurisdictions.
Who was the first judge in the United States?
John Jay