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

Brown was convicted of manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility.

From BBC ● Aug. 29, 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

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 ● Mar. 18, 2026

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 ● Feb. 24, 2026

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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