Physics
The Necessity Defense in Criminal Law for Emergency Actions
Quick fact
In 2022, a Nebraska man charged with smashing a car window to rescue a dog on a hot day was cleared using the necessity defense—a classic example of breaking one law to prevent a greater harm.
Why this is interesting
Imagine you are lost in a blizzard and break into a mountain cabin to survive. Should you be punished for trespassing? The law has an answer—and it is not what you might expect.