Introduction

• Actus Reus

  This is either:

  • the prohibited act that must be voluntary
  • An omission to Act
  • The consequence that occurs
• The principle of criminal law:

  Actus non facit reum, nisi mens sit rea

  (Guilty conduct does not make a person guilty unless accompanied with a blame worthy state of mind).
• Voluntary Act 


  It is essential that the defendant acted voluntarily to cause the injury, damage or harm.
• Omissions


  The Actus Reus can also exist for failing to do that which the law requires them to do.
• Causation


  The actions/omission has to cause the injury or harm to the victim.

  There is therefore a chain of causation which must not be broken by an intervening act.
• Strict Liability Offences


  Also referred to a Nota Bene.

  It requires an Actus Reus but not Mens Rea.
• Absolute Liability Offences


  Requires neither Actus Reus nor Mens Rea.