Actus non facit reum nisi mens sit rea

Meaning: The act does not make a person guilty unless the mind is also guilty.
Explanation: This principle emphasizes that for a crime to be established, there must be both a guilty act (actus reus) and a guilty intention (mens rea). It ensures that individuals are not punished for accidental or unintended actions without criminal intent.
Example: If someone accidentally breaks a window without any intention of causing damage, they may not be criminally liable under this maxim.