Criminal intent refers to the mental state or purpose behind committing a crime. It indicates whether a person acted with intention, knowledge, recklessness, or negligence when engaging in unlawful behavior. Understanding criminal intent is crucial in determining the severity of a crime and the appropriate punishment. In legal terms, different levels of intent can affect the outcome of a case. For example, premeditated murder involves a clear intention to kill, while manslaughter may occur without such intent. Courts assess evidence to establish the defendant's mindset, which plays a significant role in the judicial process.