Legal Definitions - implied malice

Definition: Implied malice is the intention to commit a wrongful act without any justification or excuse, or reckless disregard of the law or a person's legal rights. It can also refer to ill will or wickedness of heart.

Example: If someone drives a car at high speed through a crowded area, they may not intend to harm anyone, but their actions show a reckless disregard for the safety of others. This could be considered implied malice if someone is injured or killed as a result.

This example illustrates how implied malice can be inferred from a person's conduct, even if they did not have a specific intention to cause harm. The reckless behavior shows a disregard for the safety of others, which can be considered a form of malice.