automatism

Question 1

who gave us the definition for automatism

Answer 1

Bratty- defined as an act done by the muscles without any control by the mind

Question 2

rule 1 for automatism with cases

Answer 2

must be 100% loss of voluntary control

• A-G ref no. 2, loss of control was not total as the lorry driver recollected seeing lights
• Hill v Baxter, involuntary act driving was attacked by a swarm of bees

Question 3

rule 2 for automatism with cases

Answer 3

• caused by an external factor
• Quick, diabetic who has taken insulin but also drink alcohol and not eaten so the insulin is an external factor
• use Hennessey to contrast this

Question 4

rule 3

Answer 4

cannot be self induced

- R v Balley, you cant rely on it if self induced