Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 161 § 161.115 — Construction of statutes with respect to culpability
Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 161 ·
Oregon Code § 161.115·Enacted ·Last updated March 01, 2026
Statute Text
Construction of statutes with respect to culpability.
(1) If a statute defining an
offense prescribes a culpable mental state but does not specify the element to
which it applies, the prescribed culpable mental state applies to each material
element of the offense that necessarily requires a culpable mental state.
(2) Except as
provided in ORS 161.105, if a statute defining an offense does not prescribe a
culpable mental state, culpability is nonetheless required and is established
only if a person acts intentionally, knowingly, recklessly or with criminal
negligence.
(3) If the
definition of an offense prescribes criminal negligence as the culpable mental
state, it is also established if a person acts intentionally, knowingly or
recklessly. When recklessness suffices to establish a culpable mental state, it
is also established if a person acts intentionally or knowingly. When acting
knowingly suffices to establish a culpable mental state, it is also established
if a person acts intentionally.
(4) Knowledge
that conduct constitutes an offense, or knowledge of the existence, meaning or
application of the statute defining an offense, is not an element of an offense
unless the statute clearly so provides. [1971 c.743 §10]
Plain English Explanation
This Oregon statute addresses Construction of statutes with respect to culpability. AI-powered analysis coming soon.
Key Points
01Part of Oregon statutory law
02Referenced as Oregon Code § 161.115
03Subject to legislative amendments
04Consult a licensed attorney for application to specific cases
Frequently Asked Questions
This section of Oregon law addresses Construction of statutes with respect to culpability. Read the full statute text above for details.
This page reflects the current text as of our last update. Always verify with the official Oregon legislature website for the most current version.
The formal citation is Oregon Code § 161.115. Use this format in legal documents and court filings.
Browse related sections using the links below, or search all Oregon statutes on FlawFinder.