Actus Reus

Actus Reus

1. What is the Actus Reus?

   • The physical element of the offence
     • Conduct Crimes
       • Crime is complete on conduct
         • Rape
         • Possession of a fire arm
         • The conduct of lying represents the Actus Reus of Perjury
           • Doesn't matter if lie is believed
     • Result crimes
       • The Actus Reus may relate to the result of the act or omission
       • The conduct itself may not be criminal
         • But the result is
           • eg. not a crime to throw a stone
             • But the result could lead to GBH or ABH
     • Status crimes
       • not based upon prohibited action or inaction
         • the offender will have a certain personal condition or is of a specified characterified character
           • eg. being a minor and drinking alcohol
   • Everything but state of mind

2. The Elements of the Actus Reus

   • Must be different for every offence