Every now and then, there arise circumstances beyond a defendant's control that cause him or her to commit what would normally be a crime. If the conditions are right, someone in this situation can use the duress or necessity defense. In these kinds of cases, the defense essentially argues that the defendant had to break the law.
In criminal law, actions may sometimes be excused if the actor is able to establish a defense called duress.
What Is the "Necessity" Defense?
Occasionally, a person faces a situation that requires doing something illegal in order to prevent serious harm.