Delaware § 272 - Liability for the conduct of another — No defense.

Full text of Delaware Delaware Code § 272 — Liability for the conduct of another — No defense., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 272. Liability for the conduct of another — No defense.

In any prosecution for an offense in which the criminal liability of the accused is based upon the conduct of another person pursuant to § 271 of this title, it is no defense that:

(1) The other person is not guilty of the offense in question because of irresponsibility or other legal incapacity or exemption, or because of unawareness of the criminal nature of the conduct in question or of the accused’s criminal purpose, or because of other factors precluding the mental state required for the commission of the offense; or

(2) The other person has not been prosecuted for or convicted of any offense based on the conduct in question, or has previously been acquitted thereof, or has been convicted of a different offense or in a different degree, or has legal immunity from prosecution for the conduct in question; or

(3) The offense in question, as defined, can be committed only by a particular class of persons, and the defendant, not belonging to that class, is for that reason legally incapable of committing the offense in an individual capacity, unless imposing liability on the defendant is inconsistent with the purpose of the provision establishing the defendant’s incapacity.

11 Del. C. 1953, §  272;  58 Del. Laws, c. 497, §  1;  70 Del. Laws, c. 186, §  1; 

Source: official Delaware text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware § 272

What does Delaware Code § 272 cover?

Section 272 ("Liability for the conduct of another — No defense.") is part of the Delaware Code, the codified statutory law of Delaware. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Delaware § 272?

A common citation format is "Delaware Code § 272" (Delaware). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Delaware law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Delaware official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Delaware attorney.

How does Delaware § 272 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Delaware can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.