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1. Define actus reus and mens rea.

2. Why are these elements important to the
criminal justice system?

User Iisystems
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1 Answer

28 votes
28 votes

Answer:

1.

Most crimes consist of two broad elements: men's rea and actus reus. Men's rea means to have "a guilty mind." The rationale behind the rule is that it is wrong for society to punish those who innocently cause harm. Actus reus literally means "guilty act," and generally refers to an overt act in furtherance of a crime.

2.

The overall purpose of the criminal justice system - to prevent crime and create peaceful, law-abiding societies - is best served through restorative rather than retributive / punitive justice approaches

User Mindlid
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