term:

Overt Act

overt act n

1 : an act directed toward another person that indicates an intent to kill or harm and that justifies self-defense
2 : an outward act that is done in furtherance of a conspiracy, of treason, or of the crime of attempt and that is usually a required element of such crimes for conviction even if it is legal in itself

Source: Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law ©1996. Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.