What are the elements of an attempt to commit a crime?

The correct choice focuses on three critical components that establish the offense of attempt in criminal law: specific intent, an overt act, and an element of failure.

Specific intent means that the individual must have a clear purpose or intent to commit the crime in question. It distinguishes attempt from other forms of criminal behavior by requiring that the defendant not only desires the outcome but also plans to engage in the conduct necessary to achieve it.

The overt act is a crucial element that signifies a direct step taken toward the commission of the intended crime. This action must go beyond mere preparation; it must show that the defendant has embarked on the criminal endeavor.

Failure refers to the fact that the crime was not completed, which highlights that the act of attempt signifies an unsuccessful effort to achieve the criminal objective. This failure is necessary in distinguishing attempts from completed crimes.

Combining these three elements provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the legal basis of attempts to commit crimes, thus validating that this answer captures the essence of the legal definition of an attempt.