Actus Reus Lecture Notes

This is a set of vocabulary flashcards based on the key terms and definitions from the chapter on Actus Reus in criminal law.

Actus Reus

The criminal act or omission required to convict.

Mens Rea

The criminal intent or mental state associated with a crime.

Voluntary Act

A conscious choice by an individual to commit or not commit an act.

Involuntary Act

An unconscious act carried out by reflex or during unconsciousness.

Status Offense

Activities prohibited to certain classes of people.

Omission

A failure to act or a negative act.

Bystander Rule (American)

An individual is not legally required to assist a person in peril unless there's a legal duty.

Bystander Rule (European)

An individual is legally required to assist a person in peril.

Good Samaritan Rule

Encourages individuals to assist others in peril without legal obligation.

Creation of Peril

An individual who places another in danger has a duty to rescue.

Duty to Assist

An obligation to help others based on status, statute, or contract.

Joint Possession

When multiple individuals exercise control over contraband.

Actual Possession

Having drugs or contraband within physical possession or immediate reach.

Constructive Possession

Control over an object not in immediate physical possession.

Knowing Possession

Awareness that an individual possesses contraband.

Mere Possession

Physical control without awareness of contraband.

Fleeting Possession

Momentarily possessing and disposing of illegal objects.

Social Harm

The damage caused by a crime that is condemned under law.

Result Crime

A crime where the defendant's act must be the actual cause of harm.