Motive

{
  "id": "MLC-T-LAW-005389",
  "term": "Motive",
  "field": "Law",
  "definition": "The underlying reason, emotion, or desire that prompts a person to commit a crime. While motive is not an element of most crimes that the prosecution must prove, evidence of it is introduced to explain why the defendant acted and to persuade a jury of their guilt. Motive is distinct from intent, which is the mental state of resolving to carry out the specific criminal act.",
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/law/motive/"
}