Automatism as a Defence in Criminal Law

Automatism remains one of the most complex and contested areas in criminal law, posing significant challenges for practitioners and the judiciary alike. This book offers a clear and authoritative exploration of the phenomenon, bringing together the latest scientific understanding of sleep disorders and other medical conditions with a rigorous analysis of how the criminal justice system responds when such conditions are raised as a defence.

Drawing on interdisciplinary research, it examines the legal doctrines that shape automatism, the evidential hurdles involved in establishing it, and the implications for criminal responsibility. The book provides detailed insight into the medical conditions most commonly associated with automatism—including epilepsy, sleepwalking, and diabetes—explaining their mechanisms and their relevance in court.

By integrating legal theory, medical science, and practical guidance on expert evidence, this work serves as an essential resource for law students, legal practitioners, judges, and expert witnesses who engage with automatism in criminal proceedings.

UK Title

Contents

1. Foreword

2. Chapter 1: Automatism — What Is It?

3. Chapter 2: Legal Aspects of Automatism

4. Chapter 3: Medical Aspects of Automatism

5. Chapter 4: Specific Causes of Automatism

6. Chapter 5: Criminal Law Theory

7. Chapter 6: Expert Evidence

8. Chapter 7: Conclusions

9. Glossary

10. Bibliography

11. Appendices A–F

12. Case Histories

13. Index