extenuating circumstances

The inquiry naturally occurs, Are there no extenuating circumstances to be adduced on the part of the Japanese?

I will gladly hear any extenuating circumstances that you may give, for I am loth to believe that you are guilty of treachery.

Ralph attempted no apology, or excused himself by extenuating circumstances.

He alone can judge how far the cruelty of Mr. Elliot was the outcome of extenuating circumstances.

In the case of any extenuating circumstances, the culprit may be sent to penal servitude with hard labour for twenty years.