What does 'actus reus' mean?

'Actus reus' is a fundamental concept in criminal law that refers specifically to the physical act or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense. It encompasses all elements of a crime that are related to the defendant's actions, including behaviors, omissions, or conduct that have resulted in a violation of the law. The principle behind actus reus is that for an individual to be found guilty of a crime, there must be a tangible action or failure to act when there is a legal duty to do so.

Understanding actus reus is crucial because it establishes the basis for determining whether a crime has been committed. This concept is essential in differentiating between mere thoughts or intentions and actual criminal behavior. A person may think about committing a crime, but without the actus reus — the act itself — there can be no charge of a crime.