What type of intent is required for attempt?

Attempt crimes are all about what a person is planning to do. To commit the crime of "attempt," someone needs to really want to break the law, and they must take steps toward committing that crime. For example, imagine someone planning to steal a car. Even if they are caught trying to pick the lock but never actually drive the car, it still counts as an "attempt" because their goal was clear: to steal the car.

Attempt requires a specific intent. This means they have a clear purpose to commit a particular crime. Simply preparing or thinking about doing something wrong is not enough; they have to take concrete actions toward making it happen.

In real life, this rule helps prevent crimes before they’re fully carried out. It also shows that the law focuses on both actions and intentions. Someone who fully plans and tries to commit a crime is seen as a serious risk to public safety, even if they fail in completing their plan.