diminished capacity

noun

di·​min·​ished capacity

də-ˈmi-nisht-

1

: an abnormal mental condition that renders a person unable to form the specific intent necessary for the commission of a crime (as first-degree murder) but that does not amount to insanity

called also diminished responsibility, partial insanity

compare insanity, irresistible impulse test, m'naghten test, substantial capacity test

2

a

: a defense based on a claim of diminished capacity

b

: the doctrine that diminished capacity may negate an element of a crime

Note: If diminished capacity is shown, negating an element of the crime with which a defendant is charged, the defendant can only be convicted of a lesser offense that does not include the element.