legal aptitude · Updated September 2026
Criminal law general exceptions explained for law aspirants
Private defence, mistake of fact, accident, necessity and insanity — explained with how entrance questions test them.
Why exceptions matter
Many principle–fact questions turn on whether an exception applies. Learn the conditions of each, not just the name.
Key exceptions
- Private defence: force proportionate to a real threat.
- Mistake of fact: good-faith mistake, not mistake of law.
- Accident: lawful act, done with care, without intention.
- Necessity: act to prevent greater harm, in good faith.
Note on new criminal laws
India's criminal codes were replaced in 2024 by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and related laws. Entrance questions give the principle, but know the new names for GK.
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Frequently asked questions
- The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024.
- No. Mistake of fact can be a defence; mistake of law generally is not.