The Model Penal Code

The Model Penal Code (MPC) is a comprehensive set of criminal law guidelines created in the mid-20th century to standardize and clarify laws across the United States. It categorizes crimes and defines their elements, providing principles for assessing criminal responsibility and punishment. While it's not law itself, it serves as a reference for many states when drafting or revising their criminal laws. The MPC seeks to ensure fairness, consistency, and clarity in the legal system, helping judges and juries apply the law effectively when evaluating criminal cases.