What is encapsulated in the term “attempt” within the legal context of PC 664?

The term "attempt" within the legal context of Penal Code 664 refers specifically to "commencing a crime." This means that the law identifies an attempt as taking substantial steps toward the commission of a crime, demonstrating the individual's intent to engage in criminal behavior, even if the crime itself does not ultimately occur.

In legal terms, an individual is considered to have attempted a crime when they have initiated actions that indicate they are moving forward with committing that crime, even if they do not complete it. This focuses on the actions taken rather than the planning or preparation stages which are not sufficient on their own to constitute an attempt under the law.

Understanding this concept is crucial because it delineates the point at which an individual's conduct transitions from mere intention to conduct that can be prosecuted as a crime, illustrating the legal system's stance on preventing the progression toward actual criminal acts.