A defendant pleading diminished responsibility does not seek relief from punishment by justification or excuse, but seeks to be punished for a lesser offense which he generally admits committing.

Question

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The statement accurately describes the nature of a plea of diminished responsibility. A defendant is not denying responsibility for the offense but is seeking a lesser charge that reflects their reduced mental capacity at the time of the crime.

A Defendant Pleading Diminished Responsibility Does Not Seek Relief from Punishment