What does the term 'actus reus' refer to?

The term 'actus reus' refers to the physical act of the crime. In criminal law, this concept encompasses all the elements of an offense that involve the defendant's action or conduct. It is essential for establishing that a crime has occurred, as it demonstrates that the accused engaged in a behavior that is prohibited by law.

Understanding 'actus reus' is crucial because it must be proven alongside 'mens rea,' which pertains to the mental state of the defendant at the time of committing the act. When analyzing a criminal case, both components are necessary to establish liability; however, 'actus reus' specifically focuses on the tangible actions performed, differentiating it from aspects like motive or legal justification, which are not pertinent to the physical act itself.