What is meant by "actus reus" in criminal law?

"Actus reus" refers to the physical act or omission that constitutes a criminal offense. In criminal law, this term is fundamental as it signifies the external component of a crime, distinguishing it from the mental state or intent of the individual, known as "mens rea." For a crime to occur, there must be a voluntary act or a failure to act when there is a legal duty to do so. This means that simply having the intent to commit a crime does not suffice; there must also be an actual action or inaction that fulfills the crime’s physical element.

Understanding "actus reus" is critical in establishing liability. It helps to clarify what specific actions or omissions the law criminalizes and ensures that individuals can be held accountable for their behavior. In contrast, the other options refer to aspects of criminal law that do not define this fundamental concept. The mental state of the defendant is captured by "mens rea," while defense strategies and punishments, while relevant in the context of criminal proceedings, do not pertain to the definition of "actus reus."