What does "malum in se" mean?

The term "malum in se" refers to actions that are inherently wrong or immoral, regardless of whether they are prohibited by law. This legal maxim is rooted in the idea that certain acts are universally understood to be wrong by nature, based on moral principles rather than statutory laws. Examples of "malum in se" offenses include murder, rape, and theft, all of which are widely recognized as immoral and unacceptable in societal norms. This concept contrasts with actions that may be considered wrong based on legal statutes but are not inherently evil in nature. Understanding this distinction is critical in legal contexts, as it sheds light on the moral underpinnings of specific crimes.