Legal Definitions - maim

Definition: To maim means to cause serious and permanent bodily injury to someone or something.

In English common law, maim originally referred to cutting off or permanently disabling a body part such as an arm, leg, hand, or foot. However, in modern usage, it refers to any serious injury that limits a person or animal's physical abilities.

For example, if someone is attacked with a knife and loses the use of their arm, that could be considered maiming. Similarly, if an animal is hit by a car and loses a limb, that would also be considered maiming.

Intent to maim can be determined by looking at the circumstances surrounding the incident, such as the weapon used and the manner in which it was used. For instance, if someone uses a gun to shoot someone in the leg, that could be seen as an intent to maim.