Mental illness can be a real reason for a defense in criminal cases. This is often explained through what's called the insanity defense. Here are some important things to know about it:
Legal Standards: Many places follow the M'Naghten rule. This rule looks at whether the person who committed the crime understood what they were doing or knew it was wrong.
Examples: Imagine someone with schizophrenia who commits a crime because they believe outside forces are controlling their actions. This person might argue they're not guilty due to their mental illness.
Consequences: If this defense is successful, the person might go to a mental health facility instead of jail. The focus here is on getting treatment rather than just punishing them.
Mental illness can be a real reason for a defense in criminal cases. This is often explained through what's called the insanity defense. Here are some important things to know about it:
Legal Standards: Many places follow the M'Naghten rule. This rule looks at whether the person who committed the crime understood what they were doing or knew it was wrong.
Examples: Imagine someone with schizophrenia who commits a crime because they believe outside forces are controlling their actions. This person might argue they're not guilty due to their mental illness.
Consequences: If this defense is successful, the person might go to a mental health facility instead of jail. The focus here is on getting treatment rather than just punishing them.