Forensic Psychiatry - Meir

Question 1

What are the two components necessary to convict criminal crime?

Answer 1

Voluntary Conduct (actus reus)

Evil intent (mens rea)

Both may be present, neither alone is ground for criminal action

Question 2

What needs to be tested in the McNaghten “right-wrong test”?

Answer 2

: (1) did the defendant know what he was doing when he committed the crime?

or (2) did the defendant understand that his actions were wrong?

Driven by an irresistible impulse and showing false judgement

Question 3

What is the definition of competence to stand trial?

Answer 3

A capacity to function meaningfully and knowingly in a legal proceeding … [and where there are no] serious deficiencies in one or more abilities, such as understanding the legal proceedings, communicating with attorneys, appreciating one’s role in the proceedings, and making legally relevant decisions

Insanity is determined at the time of act not at trial