Should the insanity plea be considered a legal defense?

Answer 1

Only for the democrats!

Every body should face the consequences.

Answer 2

Yes. Even though the defendant is found not guilty by reason of insanity, they are almost always committed to a mental hospital until their staff believes it is safe for them to be returned to society. That could mean they will be in a mental hospital for life.

The legal definition is the inability to distinguish right from wrong. Though temporary insanity can be used as a defense,, it almost always fails.

Answer 3

In some states, there is
The three pleas are:
guilty, not guilty nolo contendre (no contest), and in some states-not guilty by reason of insanity

In my opinion, I don't think it should be used the way it is only for extreme circumstances. If they do get the not guilty by reason of insanity they are sent to a mental hospital and can be released if they get better. Plus how do we know if they are faking and trying to get off?

Answer 4

well if someone makes a plea of insanity, then they should have been under the supervision of someone else, and then that person or caseworker they are charged to. should be responsible for there actions, just as a parent is for there own child.

Answer 5

I think it should be a legal defense, but it shouldn't change the punishment for a criminal crime. That being said, I don't think someone with a mental disorder should be executed. Perhaps, please of mental illness could allow one to get manslaughter instead of 2nd degree murder in some cases. It depends on the situation.

In civil cases, or in non-violent, non-dangerous crimes it should also be acceptable, it depends on the situation.

Answer 6

Of course it should, there are legitimate cases of someone who is not of sound mind committing a crime. How do you then expect this person to be able to stand trial and understand what is happening. I'm not saying they walk away from what has happened, I'm saying that they should be dealt with in a more appropriate fashion.