Strict liability

• Definition

  • Defences that require no fault
  • No mens rea or only partial
• Example

  • Less serious cases
  • e.g. speeding + claim not to know = liable
• Cases

  • Sweet v Parsley
  • R v Williams
• Reasons FOR SL

  • Saves time + money
  • Acts as a deterrent
  • Places fault on individuals to be responsible for their actions
• Reasons AGAINST SL

  • Guilty even if unaware of risk
  • Doesn't improve standards
  • Contrary to human rights
  • Make someone liable even if not blameworthy
• Absolute Liability

  • No MR required + AR doesn't need to be voluntary
  • Status offences - AR is a state of affairs - D liable as they were found in a certain situation
  • R v Larsonneur