lesser included offense
noun
: a crime (as unlawful entry) that is by definition included in the commission of another crime (as burglary) which has additional elements and greater criminal liability
called also included offense
Note: A defendant may be convicted of a lesser included offense even if not charged specifically with that crime.
Dictionary Entries Near lesser included offense
Cite this Entry
“Lesser included offense.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/lesser%20included%20offense. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.
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