Criminal Law-Strict Liability and Vicarious Liability
In the chapter on tort law, strict liability and vicarious liability are discussed. To some extent, those concepts are also recognized in criminal law. Strict liability arises when a conviction can be obtained merely upon proof that the defendant perpetrated an act forbidden by statute. A common type of strict liability offense is a traffic violation. If you run a stop sign, it makes no difference what your intent was. The mere act of running the stop sign makes you guilty of a violation.
Vicarious liability can arise in the criminal context when the conduct of another person can be attributed to you.
Example: If Debbie runs a restaurant and an employee of hers sells alcohol to a minor, then she may be liable under the local liquor laws.
