Automatism

What is Automatism?

An involuntary act caused by an external factor and not self-induced

R v Bratty

D’s mind is not controlling his body in a “purposeful manner”

A-G’s Reference (No. 2 of 1992)

A total lack of awareness is required, making the defence difficult to prove

What are examples of external factors?

Head injury or injection of drugs

What is self-induced automatism?

Drinking too much or taking illegal drugs

R v Hardie

If D had a strange reaction to prescription drugs, the courts will consider if D knew there was a risk of getting in that state