R v T [1990]

1. Facts:

• D was raped and subsequently took part in a robbery.

• Raised the defence of automatism, claiming she was suffering from PTSD due to the rape.

2. Outcome:

• D was not charged.

• The court considered whether PTSD from rape was a sufficient external factor for automatism.

3. Impact and Analysis:

• External Factor: Recognised that rape, as a traumatic external event, could be considered an external factor leading to automatism.

• Legal Precedent: Highlighted that severe trauma, beyond ordinary life's disappointments, can qualify for automatism.

• Scope of Automatism: Expanded the understanding of external factors, acknowledging severe psychological trauma as a valid cause.