A Level Law Practice Exam

Which case involved a victim refusing a blood transfusion leading to a fatality?

1. Blaue

2. Jordan

3. Cheshire

4. Smith

The correct answer is: Blaue

The case that involved a victim refusing a blood transfusion leading to a fatality is indeed Blaue. In Blaue, the court dealt with a situation where the victim, a Jehovah's Witness, refused a blood transfusion necessary for her survival due to her religious beliefs. The case raised important issues about the nature of causation and the responsibilities of victims in criminal law. In this case, the facts showed that the victim was stabbed by the defendant, and although the injuries were serious, her refusal of the blood transfusion was a pivotal factor in the outcome. The judge ruled that the defendant was still liable for the death, as the law recognizes that the defendant must take the victim as they find them, including their pre-existing beliefs and choices. This case illustrates the principle that a defendant can be held criminally responsible for a death that is linked to their actions, even if the victim's refusal of treatment contributed to the result. Thus, Blaue is an important case in establishing the legal principles surrounding causation and the treatment of victim autonomy in criminal law.