What does "actus reus" signify in legal terms?

"Actus reus" refers to the physical act involved in the commission of a crime. In legal terms, it encompasses the behavior or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense, which can include actions, omissions, or states of being. For instance, in the case of theft, the actus reus would be the taking of someone else's property without consent. It is a key component of criminal liability, as it establishes that a person has engaged in a wrongful act.

Understanding "actus reus" is foundational in criminal law because it must be proven alongside "mens rea," or the mental state of the perpetrator, to establish a complete case for prosecution. This distinction helps clarify that both the action (actus reus) and intention (mens rea) are necessary elements for a crime to be considered committed.