Explain the three broad categories of criminal offences

Question

Explain the three broad categories of criminal offences?

Answer 1

There are three broad categories of criminal offences:-

Absolute Liability: The mere doing of the act makes the accused guilty of the offence.

Strict Liability: The accused can avoid liability by showing she took all reasonable care.

Mens Rea: A "guilty mind" must be shown. In general, the prosecution must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the accused committed the act or omission that is the subject of the offence and also that the accused had mens rea.