Attempt Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Attempt.

Attempt (verb)

1. The action of trying or intending to complete a task or achieve a particular outcome, even if the desired result is not reached. It requires a start of action, not just a desire or thought.

Example: An "attempt to steal" involves taking steps to take something that doesn't belong to you, not just thinking about it.

2. In criminal law, an "attempt" is when someone attempts to commit a crime but is unsuccessful.

Example: An "attempted robbery" happens when someone tries to rob a place but fails.