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

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

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

"It's amazing how someone that can plead diminished responsibility then can think as clearly as that."

From BBC • Oct. 25, 2025

Alice Mackey, 42, of Oakhanger, was in a state of "diminished responsibility" at the time according to two psychiatrists, Winchester Crown Court was told.

From BBC • Jul. 28, 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