Legal Definitions - special malice

Special malice is a legal term that refers to a specific type of malice that is directed at a particular person. Malice is the intent, without justification or excuse, to commit a wrongful act. Special malice is also known as particular malice.

For example, if someone intentionally harms a specific person, such as by spreading false rumors about them or physically attacking them, they are said to have acted with special malice. This is different from general malice, which is malice that is necessary for any criminal conduct and is not directed at a specific person.

Overall, special malice is a legal concept that helps to determine the intent behind a wrongful act and can be used to hold someone accountable for their actions.