Diminished Responsibility

Question 1

definition

Answer 1

abnormality of the mind caused by a recognised medical condition that substantially imapires the defendants ability to … and provides an explination for their conduct (S.2 (1) Homicide Act)

Question 2

abnormality of the mind

Answer 2

a state of mind so different from which is normal that a reasonable and sober person would deem it abnormal (Byrne)

Question 3

recognised medical condition

Answer 3

must be caused by a recognised medical condition under the WHO

Question 4

substantially impairs ability to

Answer 4

need not be a total impairment but more than trivial - (Lloyd)
1) form a rational judgement
2)exercise self control
3)understand the nature of their actions

Question 5

provides explanation

Answer 5

must be a causal connection between the abnormality and the crime (King)