In criminal cases, the admissibility of actions under duress is guided by the principle that involuntary actions, those performed under compulsion or threat of harm, are generally not considered criminal conduct. This principle ensures that individuals who are forced to commit illegal acts to protect themselves or others are not held criminally liable.
For example: If a person is threatened with physical harm unless they steal a valuable item, and they comply out of fear for their safety, the law typically recognizes their actions as involuntary and may not charge them with theft.