Legal Definitions - aberrant behavior

Definition: Aberrant behavior refers to a single act of unplanned or thoughtless criminal behavior.

For example, if someone who has never committed a crime before suddenly steals something, that would be considered aberrant behavior. It is a one-time occurrence that is out of character for the individual.

Many courts have recognized that aberrant behavior can be used as a reason for a more lenient sentence under the federal sentencing guidelines. This is because the guidelines do not typically address single acts of aberrant behavior.

Definition: Abesse is a Latin term used in Roman and civil law that means to be absent or away from a place where one is supposed to be, such as before a court.

For example, if a defendant fails to appear in court for their scheduled hearing, they are said to be abesse. This can result in negative consequences, such as a warrant being issued for their arrest.