In criminal law, who is considered a principal?

In criminal law, a principal is defined as the individual who actually commits the crime. This person is directly involved in the act of the offense and is therefore considered the main perpetrator of that particular crime. By being the one who engages in the unlawful activity, the principal holds primary responsibility for the conduct and the subsequent legal consequences that arise from it.

In contrast, individuals such as witnesses, attorneys, and judges play very different roles in the legal process. Witnesses provide testimony regarding the crime, attorneys represent defendants or the state, and judges oversee the legal proceedings to ensure a fair trial. None of these roles involve the actual commission of the crime itself, which is why they do not qualify as principals under criminal law. Understanding the role of the principal is crucial for grasping concepts like liability and culpability within the legal framework.