Dr Mark Dsouza presents his book Rationale-Based Defences in Criminal Law

Professor Dame Hazel Genn, Dean of UCL Laws, introduced the book launch, which was attended by a selection of criminal law academics, members of the Bar, the Crown Prosecution Service, students, and the general public.

Professor Dame Hazel Genn said:

‘I’m delighted to present Mark’s book and celebrate his success this evening. The whole of the UCL Laws community warmly congratulate him on his achievement.’

Dr Dsouza then spoke briefly to outline the book’s novel approach to understanding supervening criminal law defences – one that exculpates and classifies defendants based solely on the quality of a defendant’s reasons for choosing to commit a prima facie offence. He also explained the methodology adopted in the book, and highlighted the importance of the conclusions reached.

Dr Dsouza said:

‘I’m very happy to see this book in print. I’m really fond of it, and I am delighted at the interest that it is already generating.’

In the lively Q&A session followed, Dr Dsouza also explained how his argument could offer principled guidance for the development of criminal law doctrine, and plausible solutions to contentious questions of criminal law theory.

Read more about the event.

Read more about Rationale-Based Defences in Criminal Law and buy it.