Legal Definitions - imperfect defense

Imperfect defense is a type of defense used by a defendant in a legal case. It is a defense that fails to meet all legal requirements and usually results in a reduction in grade or sentence rather than an acquittal. For example, if a defendant is charged with murder but claims self-defense, but the force used was unreasonable, the defense would be considered imperfect and the charge may be reduced to manslaughter.

Another example of an imperfect defense is the defense of necessity, where a defendant claims that their actions were necessary to prevent a greater harm, but the harm caused was still illegal. This defense may result in a reduction in sentence or charges, but not a complete acquittal.

Imperfect defense is different from perfect defense, which meets all legal requirements and results in the defendant's acquittal.