Mentally Handicapped Crime Accountability

Summary

In New York, individuals with mental handicaps can be held accountable for crimes, but competency to stand trial and the insanity defense are key considerations. Competency requires understanding charges and assisting in defense. The insanity defense applies if the individual couldnt understand their actions or distinguish right from wrong during the crime.

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Can someone who is mentally handicap still be held accountable for a crime
Hi Patrick! In New York, a person with a mental handicap can be held accountable for a crime, but there are important considerations:
- Competency to Stand Trial: A defendant must understand the charges and be able to assist in their defense.
- Insanity Defense: If a defendant was unable to understand the nature of their actions or distinguish right from wrong at the time of the crime, they may be found not guilty by reason of insanity.
Do you have any more details about the specific situation?