Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
actus reus
Legal Term
/ˈæk.təs ˈreɪ.əs/
Definition
Actus reus refers to the physical act or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense.
Examples
- The robbery was completed without an actus reus, as no physical act was performed.
- In order to convict someone of a crime, both actus reus and mens rea must be proven.
- The lack of actus reus in this case led to the defendant’s acquittal.
Meaning
It is a term used in law to describe the action that is deemed illegal, distinguishing it from the mental state of the perpetrator (mens rea).
Synonyms
- Criminal act
- Physical act
- Guilty act
