Podcast
Questions and Answers
What does insanity encompass?
What does insanity encompass?
What are the four tests for insanity?
What are the four tests for insanity?
M'Naghten test, irresistible-impulse test, Durham rule, Model Penal Code test
The M'Naghten test assesses if the defendant knew the ______ or ______ of the act.
The M'Naghten test assesses if the defendant knew the ______ or ______ of the act.
nature, wrongfulness
A defendant is not necessarily exculpated under the M'Naghten test if he believes his acts are morally right.
A defendant is not necessarily exculpated under the M'Naghten test if he believes his acts are morally right.
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What must a defendant demonstrate under the irresistible-impulse test?
What must a defendant demonstrate under the irresistible-impulse test?
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Under the Durham rule, a defendant is not guilty if the unlawful act was the product of the defendant's ______.
Under the Durham rule, a defendant is not guilty if the unlawful act was the product of the defendant's ______.
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What does the Model Penal Code test combine?
What does the Model Penal Code test combine?
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Who has the burden of proof in most jurisdictions regarding insanity?
Who has the burden of proof in most jurisdictions regarding insanity?
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The burden of proof required in insanity cases is always beyond a reasonable doubt.
The burden of proof required in insanity cases is always beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Study Notes
Insanity Overview
- Insanity refers to mental abnormalities impacting legal responsibility, not a psychiatric condition.
- Key tests for determining insanity: M'Naghten, irresistible-impulse, Durham rule, and Model Penal Code test.
- Sociopathic and psychopathic behaviors are excluded from these tests.
- Defendants questioning their sanity can be mandated to undergo psychiatric evaluations, respecting their Fifth Amendment rights.
M'Naghten Test
- A defendant is not guilty if, due to a mental disease, they did not understand the nature or wrongfulness of their actions.
- Key aspect involves assessing if the defendant's actions would have been criminal based on their understanding influenced by delusions.
- Believing one's actions are morally right does not automatically lead to exculpation, although some states may accept this defense.
- Loss of control due to mental illness does not apply under this test, often referred to as the "right from wrong" test.
Irresistible-Impulse Test
- A defendant is deemed not guilty if a mental disease or defect hinders their ability for self-control and free choice.
- The inability to conform conduct to legal standards is central; loss of control need not be sudden but must be an irresistible impulse.
Durham Rule
- A defendant is not guilty if their unlawful act is a direct product of a mental disease or defect, fitting the "but-for" test.
- Emphasizes causation between mental illness and the criminal act.
Model Penal Code Test
- This test merges aspects of the M'Naghten and irresistible-impulse tests.
- A defendant is not guilty if, due to mental disease or defect, they lack substantial capacity to appreciate the wrongfulness of their act or to conform to the law.
Burden of Proof
- Generally, the burden of proving insanity lies with the defendant in most jurisdictions.
- Proof standards can vary, requiring either preponderance of evidence or clear and convincing evidence.
- In some jurisdictions, the defendant must present evidence of insanity, shifting the burden of proof to the prosecution to establish sanity beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Description
Explore the intricacies of insanity in legal terms through these flashcards. Learn about the definitions and the four primary tests: M'Naghten, irresistible-impulse, Durham rule, and Model Penal Code. Ideal for law students and those interested in legal definitions of insanity.
