R v Shivpuri (1986) clarified the legal position on criminal attempts involving impossible actions. The case held that a person could still be guilty of attempting to commit a crime, even if completing it was impossible. This decision focused on the defendant’s belief and actions over practicality.
Intent Over Practicality: R v Shivpuri established that a defendant’s intention to commit a crime is crucial, even if the intended crime is impossible to complete. The law focuses on the intent and belief behind the act, meaning that if a person attempts a crime believing it is possible, they can still be held criminally responsible.
