delicten

Delicten is the Dutch plural noun for delict, a term used in Dutch and related legal languages to denote acts or omissions that violate criminal law and are punishable by the state. In practice, delicten form the core of criminal liability and are defined by penal codes and case law. A delict typically requires a voluntary act or omission (actus reus) and, in most cases, a corresponding mental element (mens rea), as well as a causal link between the conduct and the prohibited result. Some offenses are strict liability and do not require proof of mens rea.

Scope and classification: In the Dutch system, delicten cover a broad range of offenses, from property crimes and violent offenses to public-order and white-collar crimes. The terms overtreding (minor offense) and misdrijf (serious offense) are often used to distinguish levels of severity, but delicten as a general term include both. The law also recognizes inchoate offenses such as attempt, conspiracy, and preparation.

Procedure and penalties: Delicten are prosecuted by public prosecutors. After investigation, charges are brought, and a trial determines guilt beyond reasonable doubt. Sanctions vary by offense and jurisdiction and can include imprisonment, fines, community service, probation, or rehabilitative measures.

International and linguistic note: The concept exists chiefly in Dutch-speaking jurisdictions, including the Netherlands and Belgium. In other languages similar terms exist (delit, delitto, délit, delito), but legal definitions and categories may differ across legal families.