Cockburn's Close

Cockburn's Close is a legal principle in British law that allows a defendant to assert a defense of "self-defense" in homicide cases, particularly when they have acted in response to a perceived threat. The principle recognizes that individuals may react violently when they genuinely believe their life is in danger, even if that belief turns out to be mistaken. This defense can influence the severity of charges and potential penalties, emphasizing the context of the defendant's perception and actions rather than solely the outcome of the incident. It reflects the balance between the right to self-defense and the value of human life.