How is duress defined as a defense in criminal law?

Duress is defined in criminal law as a situation where a person is forced to commit a crime due to immediate threat or pressure of harm against themselves or others. This defense acknowledges that the individual did not act out of their own free will but was coerced into the criminal act due to fear of potential harm. This concept allows the court to recognize that the seriousness of the threat can undermine the individual's responsibility for their actions.

In contrast, other options address different legal concepts. A claim of ignorance of the law refers to the principle that one cannot plead ignorance regarding laws as a defense for committing a crime. Being overwhelmed by emotions pertains more to issues related to mental state rather than external coercion, and lack of intent speaks to the concept of mens rea, or intent to commit a crime, which is different from being compelled to act against one’s will. Each of these options lacks the core element of coercion that is central to the definition of duress in criminal law.