1.1 The Meaning of crime

Question 1

What is the definition of crime?

Answer 1

Any act or omission of duty that results in harm to society and is punishable by the state

This includes both actions (doing something) and inactions (not doing something required).

Question 2

How do crimes affect society?

Answer 2

Crimes are seen as actions against all of us, affecting our lives

Society pays for the entire crime justice process, including police, judges, and prisons.

Question 3

What is the role of the state in criminal law?

Answer 3

The state takes the person who committed the act to court, where the offence must be proved according to the rules of the criminal procedure.

Question 4

What are the sources of criminal law?

Answer 4

Criminal law is found in both Statute and Common law.

Question 5

What is the major statute for criminal law in NSW?

Answer 5

The Crimes Act 1900 (NSW), which lists offences and prescribes maximum penalties.

Question 6

Which statute deals with public order offences in NSW?

Answer 6

The Summary Offences Act 1988 (NSW).

Question 7

What does the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW) deal with?

Answer 7

It deals with drug offences.

Question 8

Who is considered the victim of crime in criminal law?

Answer 8

All of society is considered to be the victim of crime.

Question 9

Fill in the blank: Most crimes are created by _______ placed on a person’s behaviour by society.

Answer 9

[moral and ethical judgments]