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General Defences

1. OCR, Essay question

‘The law relating to the defence of insanity is outdated and unsatisfactory. Reform is long overdue in the interests of both justice and common sense.’

Evaluate the accuracy of this statement. [50]

2. OCR, Case scenario

Alex and Barry are on the pavement arguing about a debt. Alex, who has been drinking excessively, suddenly lashes out at Barry with his fist, breaking Barry’s nose. Barry runs into the road where he is struck by a motorcycle. Barry suffers a large wound to his leg. Barry is bleeding heavily from a severed artery in his leg and is rushed to hospital. Barry refuses to have a blood transfusion because of his religious beliefs even though it would probably save his life. He dies later that day from loss of blood.

Discuss the potential criminal liability of Alex for the above incidents. [50]