What does "actus reus" mean?

"Actus reus" is a fundamental concept in criminal law that refers to the physical act or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense. This term is derived from Latin, where "actus" means "act" and "reus" means "guilty" or "culpable." In order to establish a crime, it is essential to demonstrate that there was an actual action taken or an event that occurred, which is typically a key component of the offense.

The significance of "actus reus" lies in its requirement for proving that a person engaged in conduct that is considered criminal by law. It encompasses not only the actions taken but can also include omissions or failures to act in situations where there is a legal duty to do so. Therefore, establishing the presence of "actus reus" is crucial in determining guilt or innocence in a criminal case, as it connects the defendant with the criminal act in question.