<P> In criminal law , the intoxication defense is a defense by which a defendant may claim diminished responsibility on the basis of substance intoxication . Where a crime requires a certain mental state ( mens rea ) to break the law , those under the influence of an intoxicating substance may be considered to have reduced liability for their actions . With regard to punishment , intoxication may be a mitigating factor that decreases a prison or jail sentence . Numerous factors affect the applicability of the defense . </P>
<P> In criminal law , the intoxication defense is a defense by which a defendant may claim diminished responsibility on the basis of substance intoxication . Where a crime requires a certain mental state ( mens rea ) to break the law , those under the influence of an intoxicating substance may be considered to have reduced liability for their actions . With regard to punishment , intoxication may be a mitigating factor that decreases a prison or jail sentence . Numerous factors affect the applicability of the defense . </P>
when can voluntary intoxication be used as a defense
when can voluntary intoxication be used as a defense
Where a crime requires a certain mental state ( mens rea ) to break the law , those under the influence of an intoxicating substance may be considered to have reduced liability for their actions
Where a crime requires a certain mental state ( mens rea ) to break the law , those under the influence of an intoxicating substance may be considered to have reduced liability for their actions