This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Netesq (talk | contribs) at 13:00, 22 August 2002 (Added link to criminal law). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.
Revision as of 13:00, 22 August 2002 by Netesq (talk | contribs) (Added link to criminal law)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)Mens rea or "guilty mind" is the state of mind that indicates criminal intent. In criminal law it is an essential element in obtaining a conviction for serious crimes. Since there is a natural presumption that a person was aware of the consequences of his acts, the burden of proof often lies with the defense. Some crimes are those of strict liability in which a guilty mind is not necessary for conviction. Examples of these include crimes such those involving environmental pollution.
This concept should not be confused with not knowing the law (see presumed knowledge of the law).
See also: animus nocendi, voluntas necandi
See generally: Criminal law