R v Sullivan [1984]

1. Facts:

• D was convicted of ABH after attacking someone during an epileptic fit.

• D argued that he should have been able to plead automatism instead of insanity.

2. Outcome:

• The court held that epilepsy is a disease of the mind within the meaning of the McNaughton rules.

• D was not allowed to plead automatism and was convicted under the insanity defence.

3. Impact and Analysis:

• Epilepsy as Disease of the Mind: This case established that epilepsy is considered a disease of the mind, reinforcing the broad interpretation of mental conditions under the McNaughton rules.

• Plea Restrictions: Limited the applicability of automatism, directing those with conditions like epilepsy towards the insanity defence.

• Legal Framework: Cemented the distinction between automatism (requiring external factors) and insanity (including certain internal factors).