Regina v Shekpendeh, ex parte Attorney-General
1958-59 · High Court (then Supreme Court) of Sierra Leone
Posted By lanbuk.com
- Facts
- A newspaper published articles about a man who had a disciplinary complaint pending against a lawyer.
- Issue
- Were the articles a , and was intent required?
- Held
- Yes. They were calculated to prejudice the pending matter; intent to prejudice need not be proved.
- Principle
- Criminal contempt does not require .
- Why it matters
- Basic authority on publication contempt.
Words and Latin in this note
- Mens rea
- The mental element in the definition of a crime. It is not one standard. Intention is the highest form. Recklessness is below it. Gross negligence sits at the bottom. The definition of the particular crime decides which is required. Open the note.
For study only. By lanbuk.com. Always check current sources and consult a qualified professional.