Assess critically the importance of the decision of the House of Lords in Woollin [1999] AC 82, in understanding the concept of intention in English criminal law.
In order to assess critically the importance of the decision of the HL in Woollin, I will explore the contemporary case law. This will allow me to discuss the concept of intention in English law and then to make my own observations, recommendations and conclusions as to the importance of Woollin on this concept.
From 1961 the HL has considered the mens rea or the mental element necessary for murder, notably in DPP v Smith ; Hya…