Unconsciousness

Unconsciousness is the absence of consciousness. Unconsciousness normally only occurs during sleep, and even then dreaming may involve partial or full conscioussness of dream events. Unconsciousness may also occur in the case of concussion or other medical conditions, and during anaethesia. Unconsciousness is not the same thing as the unconscious mind, which is assumed to operate even whilst the individual is conscious.

Jurisprudence

In jurisprudence, unconsciousness is a possible defense by excuse; via which, a defendant may argue that they should not be held criminally liable for actions which broke the law. Courts rarely consider "falling asleep" (especially while driving or during surgery) to be an acceptable defense; however incidents related to epileptic seizure, neurological dysfunctions, and sleepwalking; may be considered acceptable.