Délits

Délits is a term used in criminal law to designate a category of offenses that are more serious than contraventions but less serious than crimes. In many civil-law jurisdictions, délits occupy the middle ground between minor offenses and the most serious crimes, and they are generally punished by a correctional tribunal rather than a court of assizes. The exact definitions and penalties vary by jurisdiction and over time.

In the typical French-speaking framework, délits are prosecuted before the tribunal correctionnel. Penalties for délits vary according to the specific offense and can include imprisonment for a number of years, fines, or a combination of measures such as probation, community service, or suspended sentences. Some délits may carry additional penalties, like prohibitions on certain activities or professional disqualifications, depending on the nature of the offense.

Common examples of délits include theft, fraud, abuse of trust, certain forms of violence, and various economic offenses. The precise classification depends on the statutory provisions and the presence of aggravating or mitigating circumstances. In many cases, the distinction between délits and crimes hinges on the severity of the offense and the potential punishment.

It is important to note that the term délits can have a broader civil-law meaning as well, referring to wrongful acts that cause damage and give rise to civil liability or a duty to repair the harm (tort-like responsibility). The exact meaning and procedures associated with délits thus depend on the legal system in question.