Omissions

In the criminal law, culpability can be premised upon either an "act" or (in appropriate cases) an "omission" to act. In this lesson, we examine the concept of culpability for omissions, and we explore the limits of criminal culpability. This lesson is intended for students who have studied these issues in class, and who wish to further refine their knowledge.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the lesson, students will be able to:

1. Discuss the concept of criminal culpability for omissions.
2. Discuss the requirement of the "duty to act."
3. Analyze the circumstances under which criminal responsibility can be imposed for omissions.
4. Explain the justifications for imposing punishment for omissions.