Impossibility

• What does s.1(2) state about attempting to commit an offence?

  A person may be guilty even if impossible
• Under what conditions does s.5.1(3) apply regarding a person's intention?

  When belief differs from actual facts
• In the case of factual impossibility, what was the outcome in Shivpuri?

  D was still guilty despite harmless substance
• What was the key issue in the Taaffe case regarding legal impossibility?

  D attempted to smuggle a non-existent crime
• What substance did D attempt to deal with in the Shivpuri case?

  A harmless 'fake' drug
• How does factual impossibility differ from legal impossibility in criminal law?

  Factual impossibility involves harmless substances
• What was D's belief in the Taaffe case regarding the legality of his actions?

  D believed importing currency was illegal
• What was D's actual action in the Taaffe case?

  D was smuggling cannabis
• What does the term 'mens rea' refer to in the context of attempting a crime?

  Mens rea refers to the intention to commit a crime
• How does the legal system view attempts to commit impossible crimes?

  Attempts can still result in guilt
• What is the significance of the distinction between factual and legal impossibility?

  It determines the outcome of criminal liability
• What is the definition of factual impossibility?

  Attempting to commit a crime that cannot occur
• What is the definition of legal impossibility?

  Attempting to commit a crime that does not exist