diminished responsibility

British  

noun

1. law a plea under which proof of an impairing abnormality of mind is submitted as demonstrating lack of premeditation and therefore criminal responsibility

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

diminished responsibility

He was subsequently convicted of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.

From BBC ● Aug. 30, 2026

Two years after Ellis's execution the law was also changed to allow a defence of diminished responsibility.

From Barron's ● Jul. 8, 2026

However, following psychiatric reports, Calocane ultimately pleaded guilty to three counts of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility and three counts of attempted murder.

From BBC ● Mar. 18, 2026

Dr Ian Cumming, a consultant psychiatrist, told jurors at Brighton Law Courts five psychiatrists had carried out reports on Martin and there was "uncertainty about the defence of diminished responsibility".

From BBC ● Nov. 6, 2025

In the opinion of Dr. Satten and his colleagues, Andrews’ crime amounted to such an undebatable example of diminished responsibility that the case offered an ideal chance to challenge the M’Naghten Rule in Kansas courts.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote

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