California Private Investigator Practice Exam

What is the act of asking someone to commit a crime with the intent the crime be committed known as?

1. Conspiracy

2. Solicitation

3. Instigation

4. Aiding and abetting

The correct answer is: Solicitation

The act of asking someone to commit a crime with the intent for that crime to be carried out is known as solicitation. In legal terms, solicitation involves enticing, advising, or encouraging another person to engage in criminal conduct. It is distinct from conspiracy, which involves an agreement between two or more parties to commit a crime and usually includes some overt act toward completing that crime. Solicitation alone means that the individual has approached another party with the intent that they commit the crime, regardless of whether that person actually commits the crime or takes substantial steps toward it. This creates a clear line of intention and action that characterizes solicitation within criminal law. It's an important concept as it can lead to charges even if the crime itself is not ultimately carried out, emphasizing the legal system's recognition of the harmful implications of promoting criminal behavior.