Vollrausch
Vollrausch (lit. 'intoxication') is a criminal provision (Section 323a of the German Criminal Code) which complements Actio libera in causa in German criminal law.[1][2]
If a person voluntarily intoxicates themselves with alcohol or other substances and later commits an unlawful act while under the influence, they could face criminal liability under the concept of Vollrausch. Even though their intoxication might impair their mental capacity and prevent them from being fully criminally responsible, they can still be punished with imprisonment for up to five years or a fine. The penalty for the offense committed while intoxicated cannot exceed the punishment for the crime itself. Additionally, prosecution for the offense can only occur under certain conditions, such as when the crime requires a formal application or request for prosecution, meaning it can only be pursued if the victim or relevant authority initiates the process.[3][4]
References
[edit]- ^ Streng, Franz (2000). "„actio libera in causa" und Vollrauschstrafbarkeit — rechtspolitische Perspektiven" [Actio libera in causa and Criminal Liability for Voluntary Intoxication — Legal and Political Perspectives]. JuristenZeitung (in German). pp. 20–27. Retrieved 15 June 2025.
- ^ "Vollrausch, § 323a - Strafrecht Besonderer Teil 3" [Vollrausch, § 323a - Criminal Law Special Part 3]. juracademy.de (in German). Retrieved 15 June 2025.
- ^ "Strafgesetzbuch (StGB) § 323a Vollrausch" [Criminal Code (StGB) § 323a Intoxication]. Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz (in German). Retrieved 15 June 2025.
- ^ Junge, Andreas (14 May 2020). "Ein Vollrausch schützt vor Strafe nicht – § 323a StGb und § 122 OWiG" [Voluntary intoxication does not protect from punishment – § 323a StGB and § 122 OWiG]. anwalt.de (in German). Retrieved 15 June 2025.
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