mitigating circumstances

plural noun

1. circumstances that may be considered to lessen the culpability of an offender

Example Sentences

These are the mitigating circumstances, but for Arteta and his players in the ruthless business at the top of the Premier League, the league table now bears a worrying look.

From BBC

Magistrates adjourned the hearing for sentencing to consider if there are mitigating circumstances - "including exceptional hardship" - for not disqualifying him from driving.

From BBC

Daybell’s defense, meanwhile, will try to provide the jury with mitigating circumstances that could show the panel a lighter sentence is more appropriate.

From Seattle Times

There are mitigating circumstances which apply in the situation of the elderly man who died of AKPV.

From Salon

Ellenson said earlier this year there were “ mitigating circumstances,” including Taylor’s miscarriages and postpartum depression.

From Washington Times