extenuating factors

• mitigatingReducing harm or severity
• circumstancesConditions affecting an event
• justificationReason proving rightness
• excuseOffered reason for wrongdoing
• leniencyMildness in punishment

mercy · compassion · hardship · duress · coercion · provocation · desperation · context · background · plea · defense · sympathy · understanding · forgiveness · allowance · consideration · pardon · clemency