# Criminal responsibility, not sympathy

Topic: Defense Case
Topic URL: https://lindsay.conspirograph.com/topic/defense-case
Card URL: https://lindsay.conspirograph.com/topic/defense-case/card/35
Markdown URL: https://lindsay.conspirograph.com/topic/defense-case/card/35.md
Updated: 2026-08-13T12:40:53.814Z

Notice: This archive documents claims, it does not automatically endorse them.

#### Card #10: Criminal responsibility, not sympathy

- URL: https://lindsay.conspirograph.com/topic/defense-case/card/35
- Markdown: https://lindsay.conspirograph.com/topic/defense-case/card/35.md
- Topic: Defense Case
- Updated: 2026-08-13T12:40:53.814Z
- Comments: 0

Summary:

The legal test that controls the defense.

Body:

[VERIFIED FACT] The defense must place criminal responsibility in issue, but the Commonwealth bears the burden of disproving lack of responsibility beyond a reasonable doubt. [Massachusetts model instruction](https://www.mass.gov/info-details/model-jury-instructions-on-homicide-i-criminal-responsibility)

Links:
- https://www.mass.gov/info-details/model-jury-instructions-on-homicide-i-criminal-responsibility

Attachments:
- No approved attachments on this card.