What concept refers to the mental state necessary for a crime, often described as "guilty mind"?

The concept that refers to the mental state necessary for committing a crime, often described as "guilty mind," is known as mens rea. This term is fundamental in criminal law as it distinguishes between individuals who have intentionally committed a crime and those who may not have had the intent or mental capacity to do so. Mens rea involves the awareness or intention behind one's actions, which is a crucial factor in determining culpability.

In contrast, actus reus refers to the physical act or conduct that constitutes a criminal offense, whereas strict liability refers to legal accountability that does not require proof of mens rea, focusing instead on the act itself. Negligence, on the other hand, pertains to a failure to take reasonable care, which can lead to harm but does not encompass the full scope of malicious intent required for many criminal charges. Thus, mens rea is the correct answer as it encapsulates the necessary mental framework for establishing intent in a crime.