"Table of cases": pages xxix-xlviii.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. Introduction to the penal code of Sri Lanka;
2. Physical elements of crimes;
3. Fault elements of crimes;
4.The concurrence principle;
5. Crimes of strict liability;
6. An overview of criminal defences;
7. Children;
8. Mistake;
9. Private defence;
10. Duress;
11. Necessity;
12. Mental disorder;
13. Intoxication;
14. Consent;
15. Provocation;
16. Exceeding private defence;
17. Sudden fight;
18. Protection accorded to public servants;
19. Abetment and criminal conspiracy;
20. Joint liability;
21. Attempt;
22. Homicide and offences prior to childbirth;
23. Non-fatal offences;
24. Sexual offences;
25. Property offences: structure, principles and theft;
26. Misappropriation, criminal breach of trust and cheating;
27. Receiving stolen property, extortion, robbery and burglary;
28. A 'General Part' for the penal code.

"This book describes and evaluates the General Principles of criminal responsibility and the major offences against the person and property contained in the Sri Lankan penal code. The aims are to assist in the application of the law and to provide suggestions for reform. To achieve these aims, it examines cases from other penal code jurisdictions as well as from Sri Lanka. There has not been a comprehensive study of the Sri Lankan penal code since Professor CGL peiris' books were published nearly 40 years ago (General Principles of criminal liability in Ceylon: a comparative analysis (1st edn, 1972; 2nd edn, 1980) and offences under the penal code of Ceylon (1st edn, 1973; 2nd edn, 1982)). significant legislative and case law developments have occurred since that time. Much of the penal code has stood the test of time. However, given its antiquity, this commentary proposes significant reforms. They include the enactment of a 'general part', with precise and comprehensive provisions reflecting contemporary views about criminal responsibility." -- Back cover.

In English.