What is the term used when the intent to commit one act establishes the intent for another offense, even if the intended act does not occur?

The term used when the intent to commit one act establishes the intent for another offense, even if the intended act does not occur, is referred to as transferred intent. This legal concept applies primarily in torts and criminal law, where an individual intends to harm one person but unintentionally harms another instead, or intends to commit one crime and ends up committing a different one. In such cases, the original intent is "transferred" to the actual offense that occurred, allowing for liability to be assigned even in the absence of a direct intention to commit that specific act.

Understanding this concept is crucial for legal professionals as it can significantly influence the outcomes of cases involving unintended consequences of actions or decisions made by individuals.