Parties to a crime

• Who is considered a principal offender in a crime involving two or more defendants?

  All defendants are tried as principal offenders.
• What does it mean to aid in the commission of an offence?

  It means assisting or helping in the commission of the offence.
• How does abetting differ from aiding in a crime?

  Abetting involves encouraging or inciting an offence.
• What is the role of counsel in the context of a crime?

  Counsel refers to advising or soliciting an offence.
• What does it mean to procure in relation to a crime?

  To procure means to endeavour to have someone commit the offence.
• Is it sufficient for a participant to merely foresee that the principal might commit an offence?

  No, the participant must intend for the principal to commit the offence.
• What are the key roles involved in the participation of a crime?

  • Principal offender: all defendants tried as such
  • Aid: assisting in the offence
  • Abet: encouraging or inciting the offence
  • Counsel: advising or soliciting the offence
  • Procure: endeavouring to have someone commit the offence