Criminal Law Basics

Actus Reus = The guilty act, or the physical act that constitutes a crime. Mens Rea = The guilty mind, or the mental state required for a crime. Standard of Proof = The level of certainty required for a conviction, typically beyond a reasonable doubt. Burden of Proof = The responsibility of proving guilt, which rests on the prosecution in most legal systems.

Criminal law is mainly set down by the state = The state, through legislation, defines and codifies criminal offenses and punishments. Ideas of what conduct is criminal can change over time = Societal values, evolving norms, and changing perspectives can influence the definition of criminal conduct. The two elements of any offense are actus reus and mens rea = Both the physical act of the crime and the mental state of the perpetrator are necessary for a criminal conviction. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty = The legal system places the burden of proof on the prosecution to demonstrate guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Beyond Reasonable Doubt = The highest level of proof required in criminal cases, where the jury or judge must be convinced that the defendant is guilty with a very high degree of certainty. Presumption of Innocence = A fundamental principle of criminal law that requires the prosecution to prove guilt, and the defendant is not obligated to prove their innocence. Actus Reus = The external element of a crime, referring to the physical act or conduct that constitutes the offense. Mens Rea = The internal element of a crime, referring to the mental state or intent of the perpetrator.