Duress in Defense Law

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What is Duress?

Duress occurs when a person has been deprived of his free will by means of a threat of violence or threat to personal liberty. A person acting under duress might not be held liable for the crimes he has committed. When a person raises a duress defense, the accused admits to committing the crime, but typically asserts that his actions should be excused due to the duress.

Requirements of a Duress Defense

Murder and Duress

A majority of states will not excuse homicide for reasons of duress. However, a minority of states will drop homicide to manslaughter for reasons of duress.

Duress Used in an Intolerable Prison Conditions Context

A majority of modern courts allow people who have escaped from prison a duress defense, if the escapee turns himself in to the police after escaping. If successful, the escapee won't be punished for escaping but he will have to finish his sentence in another jail. For an escapee to claim duress he must show that:

What Can You Do if You are Accused of a Crime, But Acted Under Duress?

If you are accused of committing a crime where you acted under duress you should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. A criminal defense lawyer can help you mount an effective duress defense against the charges you are facing.

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Last Modified: 06-28-2013 02:31 PM PDT

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