Mala in se, a Latin phrase, refers to crimes such as murder, rape, and theft. These contrast with mala prohibita offenses, which are actions that are considered wrong because they violate the law, not because they are morally wrong.
What is mala in se and mala prohibita?
Mala in se (the singular is malum in se) is a term that signifies crime that is considered wrong in and of itself. The phrase is Latin and literally means wrong in itself. This class of crime is contrasted by crimes mala prohibita, the Latin term for "wrong because they are prohibited."
What is mala in se offenses?
An innately immoral act, regardless of whether it is forbidden by law. Examples include adultery, theft, and murder.
What is malum in se and malum prohibitum?
Malum in se (plural mala in se) is a Latin phrase meaning wrong or evil in itself. The phrase is used to refer to conduct assessed as sinful or inherently wrong by nature, independent of regulations governing the conduct. It is distinguished from malum prohibitum, which is wrong only because it is prohibited.