Reference no: EM133436295

To gain a better understanding of mens rea and actus reus, consider the following three scenarios. Based off what is presented in each determine whether the conduct meets the legal criteria of mens rea, actus reus, or both and defend your reasoning.

1. While browsing in a music store Jim ran into a friend from school and they decided to leave to get a cup of coffee. As they walked out Jim had forgotten that he had placed a CD under his arm and subsequently left without paying. Would Jim's conduct constitute mens rea, actus reus, or both? Why?

2. Brandon was on his way into a liquor store when a woman asked him if he would be willing to buy her some beer so she could stay outside with her dog. Brandon agreed, accepting the money she gave him. While in line to pay Brandon got to thinking and felt that the woman didn't appear to be old enough to purchase alcohol, but he bought the beer for her anyway, giving her the beer after he left the store. Would Brandon's conduct constitute mens rea, actus reus, or both? Why?

3. Joe was charged with assault after he lost his temper in a restaurant over the bill. He slammed his fist onto his table which caused a glass to fly into the face of another patron, cutting the patron's cheek. Would Joe's conduct meet the legal criteria for mens rea, actus reus, or both? Why?