The criminal law generally does not seek to punish those persons who commit acts when they lack free will, such as people who commit acts involuntarily or under duress.

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Criminal law typically requires the presence of mens rea, or a "guilty mind," for an act to be punishable. Acts committed involuntarily or under duress are generally considered to lack the requisite free will and intention, thus often exempting individuals from punishment under such circumstances.

The Criminal Law Generally Does Not Seek to Punish Those