animus

Animus means the mind, especially intention. In law it is usually combined with another word to describe the mental element of a legal concept: animus possidendi (intention to possess), animus domini (intention to own), animus manendi (intention to remain, for domicile), animus revertendi (intention to return, for wild animals or deserters), animus deserendi (intention to desert, in matrimonial law) and animus testandi (intention to make a will).

It is proved by inference from conduct and circumstances. In ordinary English “animus” also means hostility, which is a different sense.

Example

Since the husband left with no animus to end cohabitation but only for a job, there was no desertion in law.

See also

animus possidendi · animus domini · mens rea · desertion

Read more in the study notes

• Administrative law: meaning, nature, scope, growth and sources (Administrative Law)
• The rule against bias (Administrative Law)
• Audi alteram partem: the right to a fair hearing (Administrative Law)
• Reasoned decisions, exceptions to natural justice, effect of breach and Article 136 (Administrative Law)
• Administrative discretion and its judicial review (Administrative Law)
• Need for ADR, international commitments and suitability of disputes (Alternative Dispute Resolution Systems)