When you or a loved one has been charged with a crime in Massachusetts, understanding the full range of defenses available to you/your loved one is critical to your case. At The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski, our experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney will work with you to ensure that you understand your options, including how the insanity defense works in Massachusetts. Call today to learn more.
What Is the Insanity Defense?
When a person uses the “insanity defense” in Massachusetts, they are attempting to make a legal argument that holds that they lacked criminal responsibility at the time they committed the crime. As such, they are not saying that they didn’t commit the crime, but rather they cannot be held responsible for it based on their state at the time it was committed. Indeed, a person lacks criminal responsibility in the event that they suffer from a mental defect or disease; hence, the insanity defense.
When the Insanity Defense Is Used
The insanity defense is a less commonly used defense tactic in Massachusetts, and is only reserved for instances when the defendant truly was unaware of their actions or was not of sound mind at the time the crime was committed. For example, if someone has a diagnosable mental illness that precludes them from acting rationally, this may be a reason to use the insanity defense. Similarly, if someone experiences a psychotic break right before or during the act of committing a crime, the insanity defense may be used.
Important Things to Know About Insanity Defense in Massachusetts
Different states use different standards for determining if someone is “insane” or lacked criminal responsibility at the time a crime was committed, so it’s important to speak with a Massachusetts-based criminal defense attorney to understand what may be applicable to you. In Massachusetts, the Model Penal Code rule is used. This rule considers whether or not the defendant in question lacked substantial capacity to comprehend the consequences of their actions. It is a broad rule that allows for interpretation, and it is the burden of the prosecution to prove that the defendant was sane, not the burden of the defendant to prove that they were insane.
Want to Learn More? Call a Massachusetts Defense Attorney Today
If you want to learn more about using the insanity defense in Massachusetts in a case involving either yourself or someone you’re close with, call a skilled criminal defense attorney near you. Proving insanity is complex and will take substantial evidence and knowledgeable legal counsel. To get started, call The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski directly. You can reach us at (978) 397-0011 or online via our website.