Site navigation

In the history of English criminal law, which courts developed the maxim “actus non facit reum nisi…

The maxim expresses the general common-law principle that criminal liability ordinarily requires the mental element of the offence. In R v Miller, Lord Diplock traced the…

Choose your answer

In the history of English criminal law, which courts developed the maxim “actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea”?

Select one answer
Answer and explanation

Correct answer C

The maxim expresses the general common-law principle that criminal liability ordinarily requires the mental element of the offence. In R v Miller, Lord Diplock traced the familiar Latin formula to Coke’s Third Institute.

Option feedback

Option A

The maxim belongs to the English common-law criminal tradition. Equity developed a distinct body of doctrine.

Option B

The Sadar Nizamat Court was a court in British India. The maxim belongs to the English common-law criminal tradition.

Option C

The common-law courts developed the criminal law tradition in which the maxim is used.

Option D

Ecclesiastical courts exercised church jurisdiction. The maxim belongs to the English common-law criminal tradition.

Practice for these exams

Related question papers

Related exam syllabi

Related questions in this topic