Penal Code Ch. 1

Question 1

What is the short title of the Texas Penal Code?

Answer 1

It may be cited as the ‘Penal Code’.

Question 2

What are the objectives of the Texas Penal Code?

Answer 2

To establish criminal conduct, prescribe penalties, prevent crime, ensure public safety, safeguard individual rights, and guide fair justice.

Question 3

What is the effect of the Texas Penal Code?

Answer 3

It governs all criminal offenses under Texas law and abolishes common law crimes.

Question 4

When does Texas have territorial jurisdiction over an offense?

Answer 4

When conduct or its result occurs in Texas, or a conspiracy occurs in Texas to commit an offense elsewhere that violates Texas law.

Question 5

How should the Penal Code be construed?

Answer 5

Literally and logically; Penal Code provisions prevail over conflicting laws unless stated otherwise.

Question 6

How is age computed under the Penal Code?

Answer 6

A person reaches a given age at 12:01 a.m. on their birthday.