mens rea

Definition

The mental state or intent required to be guilty of a crime—proof that you meant to do something wrong, not just that you accidentally set the building on fire while making toast. It's what separates murder from tragic butterfingers.

Example Usage

The prosecution failed to prove mens rea because the defendant genuinely believed he was authorized to take the company laptop home permanently.

Origin

Latin for 'guilty mind'

Fun Fact

Some crimes don't require mens rea at all—called 'strict liability' offenses—meaning you can be guilty even if you had no idea you were breaking the law.

Source: Common criminal law terminology

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