Anger is a short insanity.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) Anger, like temporary insanity, may mitigate but does not excuse — courts consider provocation in reducing the grade of an offense, but the law never permits rage to serve as a complete defense.

Where this applies

• A defendant charged with assault argues the charge should be reduced because he was provoked into a rage by the victim's insults; the court considers the anger as a mitigating factor but not a complete defense.
• A man destroys his neighbor's fence in a fit of rage after a heated argument; the court acknowledges the provocation reduced his culpability but still holds him liable for the damage.
• A contractor tears up a signed agreement in anger during a dispute; later he tries to void the contract, but the court rules that his momentary fury does not excuse him from his obligations.