Georgia § 16-3-4 - Intoxication.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-3-4 — Intoxication., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-3-4. Intoxication.
A person shall not be found guilty of a crime when, at the time of the act, omission, or negligence constituting the crime, the person, because of involuntary intoxication, did not have sufficient mental capacity to distinguish between right and wrong in relation to such act. Involuntary intoxication means intoxication caused by: Consumption of a substance through excusable ignorance; or The coercion, fraud, artifice, or contrivance of another person. Voluntary intoxication shall not be an excuse for any criminal act or omission. (Laws 1833, Cobb's 1851 Digest, p. 779; Code 1863, § 4197; Code 1868, § 4236; Code 1873, § 4301; Code 1882, § 4301; Penal Code 1895, § 39; Penal Code 1910, § 39; Code 1933, § 26-403; Code 1933, § 26-704, enacted by Ga. L. 1968, p. 1249, § 1.) Cross references. - Voidable nature of contracts made by intoxicated persons, § 13-3-25 . Mental capacity as it relates to competency to stand trial and as it relates to culpability for criminal acts, §§ 17-7-130 , 17-7-131 . Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs, § 40-6-391 . Law reviews. - For article discussing the theory of insanity in criminal law, see 15 Mercer L. Rev. 399 (1964).
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 16-3-4
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-3-4 cover?
Section 16-3-4 ("Intoxication.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. 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 Georgia § 16-3-4?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-3-4" (Georgia). 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 Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 16-3-4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia 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 Georgia.