Q: Is it ok that the state of Utah doesn’t have to prove intent to commit a crime, because they assume everyone lies?
I’ve spoken with multiple attorneys and they said that, in the state of Utah, it doesn’t matter. If you know the laws, because the courts in Utah believe that if they required intent, then everyone would just lie and say they didn’t know the laws.
Utah gets a lot of tourism, and there have been a lot of people purchasing property and moving into the state. But I’m learning that each states laws are different.
Is this normal?
A: It depends on the law, but the overwhelming majority of crimes have an intent requirement that must be proven. There are some crimes such as DUI that are considered strict liability crimes and the state does not have to prove intent. I don't know what attorneys you're talking to, but I doubt any licensed attorney would tell you that.
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