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

The suspect "has been suffering from a mental illness for many years" and "it cannot be ruled out that he had diminished responsibility at the time of the offence", they said.

From Barron's • Oct. 31, 2025

Isaacs, 39, who moved from Botswana to the East Lothian town, had claimed diminished responsibility but was found guilty last month.

From BBC • Oct. 31, 2025

Murray's plea to manslaughter was accepted on the grounds of diminished responsibility due to mental abnormality.

From BBC • Jul. 8, 2025

However, the prosecution says this does not amount to diminished responsibility.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 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