In a crime case involving attempt, which statement correctly describes the essential element of common-law attempt?

In a crime case involving attempt, which statement correctly describes the essential element of common-law attempt?

• A. The defendant must complete the crime in full.
• B. The defendant must take a substantial step toward committing the crime beyond mere preparation.
• C. The defendant must actually possess the target object.
• D. There is no liability for attempt in common law.

Answer: (B)

Common-law attempt requires more than just planning; it hinges on the defendant taking a substantial step toward the crime. That step shows both the intent to commit the offense and action moving toward its completion, so the offense would likely have occurred if not stopped. Mere preparation or obtaining tools isn’t enough—the act must move into execution. So the correct description is that liability arises when there is a substantial step toward committing the crime beyond mere preparation.

Common-law attempt requires more than just planning; it hinges on the defendant taking a substantial step toward the crime. That step shows both the intent to commit the offense and action moving toward its completion, so the offense would likely have occurred if not stopped. Mere preparation or obtaining tools isn’t enough—the act must move into execution. So the correct description is that liability arises when there is a substantial step toward committing the crime beyond mere preparation.