What are inchoate crimes?

Inchoate crimes refer to offenses that are committed in preparation for or in furtherance of another crime. These crimes reflect the intent to commit a more serious offense but do not require the completion of that offense for prosecution. For example, conspiracy to commit theft or an attempt to commit robbery are both inchoate crimes. The key aspect of inchoate crimes is that they highlight the offender's intent and steps taken toward completing a criminal act, even if that act never comes to fruition.

In contrast, options suggesting fully completed crimes, federal law definitions, or acts of violence do not align with the definition of inchoate crimes, as they focus on actions that do not involve the mere preparation or intent without completion. Understanding inchoate crimes emphasizes the legal system's recognition of criminal intent and planning as punishable actions in themselves.