Legal Definitions - lying in wait

Definition: Lying in wait is a criminal act that involves watching, waiting for, and hiding from someone with the intention of causing them serious harm or killing them. This act shows premeditation and deliberation, which can result in a more severe punishment.

• A man hides behind a tree and waits for his ex-girlfriend to walk by so he can attack her.
• A group of robbers wait outside a bank for the employees to leave so they can break in and steal the money.

These examples illustrate how lying in wait involves planning and waiting for the right moment to carry out a harmful act. It is a serious crime that can result in severe consequences for the perpetrator.