The Insanity Defense: What It Means and When It Can Be Used

The insanity defense is one of the most complex and controversial strategies in criminal law, asserting that a defendant should not be held criminally responsible due to a severe mental illness. In Washington State, the insanity defense allows defendants to be found not guilty by reason of insanity if they were unable to understand the nature of their actions or distinguish right from wrong at the time of the offense. This blog will explore what the insanity defense means, how it’s used in criminal defense, and how it impacts sentencing.

In Washington State, the legal definition of insanity is rooted in the RCW 10.77 statute, which establishes that a defendant may be found not guilty by reason of insanity if they lacked the mental capacity to appreciate the nature of the crime or conform their conduct to the law due to a mental disease or defect. The most commonly used test for insanity is the M’Naghten Rule, which focuses on whether the defendant understood the nature of their actions or knew their actions were wrong at the time.

How Is the Insanity Defense Used in Criminal Cases?

To successfully use the insanity defense, a defendant must demonstrate through expert testimony that they were legally insane at the time of the crime. This often involves psychological evaluations to establish that the defendant’s mental state met the legal criteria for insanity, and not simply being mentally ill. It’s important to understand that mental illness alone is not enough to qualify for the insanity defense.

Impact on Sentencing in Washington State

When a defendant is found not guilty by reason of insanity, they are not sent to prison. Instead, they are often committed to a psychiatric facility for treatment. In Washington, defendants may be placed in a Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) facility, where they undergo periodic evaluations to determine their readiness for release. This treatment is often more focused on rehabilitation than punishment, and the length of commitment can vary depending on the defendant’s mental state.

Challenges:

While the insanity defense is an important legal tool, it is often difficult to prove and has a low success rate. The defense requires expert testimony, which can be both expensive and time-consuming. In Washington, less than 1% of criminal cases use the insanity defense, and it is successful in a small fraction of those cases. Additionally, even if successful, the defendant may spend a significant amount of time in a psychiatric facility, which can feel more restrictive than serving a prison sentence.

The insanity defense plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals who are mentally impaired receive appropriate care instead of unjust punishment. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges and believe the insanity defense may be applicable, it’s essential to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we have the expertise to navigate the complexities of mental health law and ensure that your rights are fully protected.