Which statement describes when mere intent without a substantial step constitutes attempt?

Which statement describes when mere intent without a substantial step constitutes attempt?

• A. Yes, mere intent with no substantial step is still an attempt
• B. It is considered a completed crime
• C. It is considered a type of solicitation
• D. No, mere intent without a substantial step is not an attempt

Answer: (B)

Key idea: An attempt requires more than just wanting to commit a crime. There must be a concrete move beyond mere planning that shows the person is aiming to complete the offense. If someone only has intent and takes no substantial step, that alone does not amount to an attempt. The law looks for actions that go beyond preparation and strongly indicate a real commitment to finish the crime. Once a substantial step is taken—something that moves decisively toward completion—the behavior can be charged as an attempt. So, the correct understanding is that mere intent without a substantial step is not an attempt. This distinguishes attempts from merely planning or preparing. The other ideas—that intent alone is an attempt, that it’s a completed crime, or that it’s solicitation—don’t fit the concept of an attempted offense.

Key idea: An attempt requires more than just wanting to commit a crime. There must be a concrete move beyond mere planning that shows the person is aiming to complete the offense.

If someone only has intent and takes no substantial step, that alone does not amount to an attempt. The law looks for actions that go beyond preparation and strongly indicate a real commitment to finish the crime. Once a substantial step is taken—something that moves decisively toward completion—the behavior can be charged as an attempt.

So, the correct understanding is that mere intent without a substantial step is not an attempt. This distinguishes attempts from merely planning or preparing. The other ideas—that intent alone is an attempt, that it’s a completed crime, or that it’s solicitation—don’t fit the concept of an attempted offense.