Which category encompasses crimes that require a specific intent, such as first-degree murder?

• A. Specific Intent Crimes
• B. General Intent Crimes
• C. Civil Negligence
• D. Recklessness

Answer: (A)

Crimes are defined partly by the mental state the defendant must have. Specific intent crimes require a particular purpose or objective beyond just doing the act. First-degree murder fits this because it involves premeditation and deliberation—planning to kill before acting shows the exact intent to achieve that result.

General intent crimes, by contrast, require intent to perform the prohibited act but not to achieve a specific outcome. Civil negligence belongs in civil law, not criminal law, since it concerns failure to exercise reasonable care rather than a criminal mental state. Recklessness describes knowingly disregarding substantial risks, which is different from aiming to bring about a specific result.