When can intoxication be a defense to criminal responsibility?

Intoxication can serve as a defense to criminal responsibility primarily when it is involuntary and significantly impairs the individual's mental capacity to understand the nature of their actions or to differentiate between right and wrong at the time of the crime. This means that if someone was intoxicated without their knowledge or against their will—such as being drugged or consuming alcohol without realizing its potency—their ability to form the intent necessary for a crime may be compromised.

Involuntary intoxication is recognized as a legitimate defense because it underscores the lack of control the individual has over their state. This can lead to a complete lack of criminal responsibility since the individual may not possess the requisite mental state required for a particular offense, as defined by the law.

Circumstances where intoxication is voluntary (such as choosing to consume alcohol or drugs) do not typically absolve one of criminal responsibility because individuals are expected to account for their actions when they willingly engage in such behavior. Additionally, being unaware of one's actions could be a factor of intoxication but does not automatically constitute a defense unless it meets specific criteria, including the involuntary nature affecting mental capacity outlined in the correct answer.

The option stating that intoxication is a defense only in cases of violent behavior is misleading because