Automatism

• Definition


  When a persons body acts independently of their mind
• Non-insane Automatism 


  "Something done by defendants muscles without the control of his mind. eg, spasms, sleepwalking, nightmares"- Bratty v A.G for Northern Ireland
• Requirement 


  "Requires complete loss of voluntary control"- A.G Ref (No.2 of 1992)
• R v T


  Dissociative state
• Self-induced automatism / Insane automatism

  • Where D knows his conduct is likely to bring on an automatic state.
  • Only allowed for crimes of specific intent
• R v Bailey 


  Diabetic not taking his insulin or someone taking drugs they know will have an effect on them