What is the legal definition of a crime?

The legal definition of a crime is best captured as an act or the commission of an act that is forbidden or punishable by law. This definition emphasizes two critical aspects: first, that there is a specific legal statute that defines certain behaviors as criminal, and second, that these behaviors, when committed, are subject to legal penalties.

This definition encompasses both felonies and misdemeanors, recognizing that not all illegal acts are of the same severity but are all nonetheless prohibited by law. The law must clearly define what constitutes a crime, and individuals can only be prosecuted for actions that fit within those definitions.

Other choices refer to aspects of crime but do not encapsulate the legal framework. For instance, while a harmful act that disrupts public peace and order may describe certain crimes, not all criminal acts necessarily create public disorder. Similarly, an action that results in harm to another individual can pertain to tort law or civil cases as well, and violations of moral standards may not be codified in law, meaning they are not necessarily subject to legal penalties. The legal definition is crucial for establishing accountability and maintaining social order through the justice system.