Motive Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Motive.

Motive (noun): In law, 'motive' refers to the emotional, psychological, or other personal reasons that may lead a person to commit a specific act or behavior, such as a crime. It can be influenced by various feelings or states of mind like fear, greed, malice, or the desire for revenge. However, unlike 'intent,' motive is not a requirement for proving a criminal case in court.