What are the two elements required for a crime to be complete?

• A. Actus Reus and Mens Rea
• B. Actus Reus and Intent
• C. Mind and Body
• D. Duty and Causation

Answer: (A)

In criminal law, a crime usually requires two pieces: an act that violates the law (the actus reus) and a mental state showing culpability (the mens rea). The actus reus is the physical action or omission that breaches the law, and it must be voluntary. The mens rea covers the defendant’s mindset at the time of the act—intent to commit the act, knowledge that the conduct is illegal, or a reckless or negligent disregard for the risk created. Together, these two elements establish not just what was done, but the culpable mindset behind it.

This pairing is why Actus Reus and Mens Rea is the best answer. It captures both the physical conduct and the corresponding mental state needed for most crimes. The other options don’t fit as well because they either narrow mens rea to only intent, use nonstandard terms, or address components (like duty or causation) that aren’t universally required as the two defining elements for a completed crime. Note that there are exceptions—strict-liability offenses don’t require mens rea—but, in general, both a voluntary act and a culpable mental state are what complete a crime.