What did AG v. Hayes (1967) establish about the accused’s knowledge regarding his actions?

The case of AG v. Hayes (1967) is significant in the context of understanding the mental state of the accused in relation to the legal concept of mens rea, or the mental element required for a crime. In this case, the court affirmed that for criminal liability, it is crucial to establish whether the accused had knowledge of the nature of his actions and whether he understood that his conduct was morally or legally wrong.

The established principle from AG v. Hayes indicates that, despite any subjective beliefs or reasoning the accused may have had, if it is determined that he knew that his conduct was wrong—regardless of any external factors influencing him—he can still be found culpable for his actions. This emphasis on the awareness of wrongdoing helps to differentiate between those who are truly incapable of understanding the nature of their actions and those who, despite knowing their actions were wrong, may have acted under duress or other pressures, but still retain responsibility for their conduct.

Thus, the correct answer reflects the essential legal doctrine derived from this case regarding the necessity for the accused to have awareness of their wrongful conduct to establish criminal liability.