Distinguishing Mens Rea from Actus Reus

Mens Rea vs Actus Reus
 
For those familiar with criminal law, the terms Mens Rea and Actus Reus are easily distinguishable, while for others, they may seem like confusing Latin phrases. Actus Reus translates to “a guilty act,” while Mens Rea means “a guilty mind.”

What is Actus Reus?

Actus Reus refers to the wrongful act or omission that makes up the physical component of a crime. It is a key concept in criminal law, and in order for the prosecution to convict a defendant, they must prove the physical element of the crime in question. Crimes such as theft, rape, possession of a firearm or drugs, or perjury all constitute Actus Reus. In some instances, Actus Reus can also involve an omission to act, such as when a person is legally required to act in a certain situation but fails to do so.

Key Takeaways

• Actus Reus refers to the physical component of a crime, while Mens Rea refers to the mental component.
• In order for a conviction to be secured, both Actus Reus and Mens Rea must be established or proved by the prosecution.
• Crimes falling under the category of strict liability do not require a Mens Rea element.

What is Mens Rea?

Mens Rea is the second part of a crime, and both parts must be established for a conviction to be secured. It is traditionally defined as an element of criminal responsibility that focuses on the accused’s state of mind, such as their guilty purpose or intentions. Mens Rea is crucial in examining the defendant’s thought process or intent at the time of the crime. The type of mental state required varies depending on the crime committed.

What is the difference between Mens Rea and Actus Reus?

The differences between Mens Rea and Actus Reus are easily identifiable:

• Actus Reus refers to the physical aspect of a crime, while Mens Rea refers to the mental aspect.
• Actus Reus pertains to the actions of the defendant and the consequences that result from those actions.
• The prosecution must prove that the defendant committed the physical component of the crime in Actus Reus cases.
• Mens Rea examines the defendant’s state of mind at the time the crime was committed and the mental state required depends on the crime committed.