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

Inquiry counsel Rachel Langdale KC asked Sanders what he thought about a charge of manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility being put forward.

From BBC

He said two psychiatrists who assessed Calocane had "very little difference" between their conclusions that a partial defence of manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility existed.

From BBC

Carey told the inquiry four psychiatrists agreed that Calocane's mental health meant that the partial defence of diminished responsibility was available to him.

From BBC

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