CRIM 230 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: Actus Reus, Mens Rea, Bodily Harm

• School: Simon Fraser University
• Department: Criminology
• Course: CRIM 230
• Professor: Simon Verdun- Jones

Document Summary

Crim 230 - lecture 2 - the actus reus elements of a criminal offence. Unit investigates essential nature of legal concept of actus reus. Analysis includes consideration of critical importance of voluntariness as essential component of criminal responsibility in canada. 3 major elements associated w/ concept of actus reus discussed. Introduces concepts of actus reus & mens rea. Terms actus reus & mens rea derived from legal axiom actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea . Act does not render person guilty of criminal offence unless his/her mind also guilty. Mens rea - refers to mental elements of offence. Actus reus - refers to all other elements of offence. Must be proved by crown in criminal trial. Can generally be separated into 3 distinct components. Robinson (2001) & moquin (2010) cases illustrate court"s role in interpreting elements of offence not defined clearly in code.