Question

The maxim “ Actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea ” means

• A. The act alone makes a person guilty
• B. Motive is more important than act
• C. The act makes a person guilty even the mind is not guilty
• D. The act does not make a person guilty unless the mind is also guilty

Hint:

Remember: Actus Reus + Mens Rea = Crime.
If either of these elements is missing (subject to exceptions like strict liability), a criminal offense is generally not established.
This is the most tested maxim in criminal law.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Break the Latin maxim.
Actus = act; non facit = does not make; reum = guilty (accused); nisi = unless; mens sit rea = the mind is also guilty.
Step 2: Doctrine of mens rea.
This maxim expresses the principle that criminal liability requires both a guilty act (actus reus) and a guilty mind (mens rea). An act alone, without criminal intent, is generally not enough for conviction.
Step 3: Select the correct meaning.
The act does not make a person guilty unless the mind is also guilty, emphasizing that intent is essential to criminal liability.
\[ \boxed{\text{The act does not make a person guilty unless the mind is also guilty}} \]