1
What does "incompetent to stand trail" mean?
You may not understand the court process or assist in your defense
what are the 4 pleas?
Guilty, Not Guilty, No Contest, NGRI
Why might someone decide to use the NGRI defense
-They are mentally ill
- Seeking treatment
What questions should you ask your lawyer before agreeing to a plea bargain?
What could be the consequences if taking the deal?
Can it affect my criminal record?
What would be the sentence offered?
If you disagree with something a witness says about you in court what should you do?
Quietly pass a note to your attorney
Someone who can state their professional opinion?
Expert Witness
What happens after you are found to be competent to stand trial?
return a jail, await court and enter a plea
Where would you be committed if you plead NGRI?
Psychiatric facility, state hospital
Who is involved in a plea Bargain?
Defendant, Defense attorney, the prosecutor and the judge
What are some cons to using the NGRI defense?
-Involuntary commitment
-Uncertain outcome
testimony
What do you give up in a plea bargin?
The right to appeal right to trial
How long can you be hospitalized for NGRI?
Depends on your mental health improvement
Which pleas can you plea a plea bargain with?
Guilty or No contest
In your own words what does not guilty by reason of insanity mean?
that at the time of the crime, i didn't know what i was doing was wrong due to my mental illness
What is a plea bargin
a deal for a lesser charge or sentence if you plead guilty or no contest
In your own words what does no contest mean?
Not admitting guilt not fighting the charges
What is conditional release?
will be granted the privilege of living outside the hospital but you have to follow rules or you could go to a locked facility
Is good hygiene important when you go back to court?
Yes!
Who is working today?
What is the attorneys job?
Why might someone decide to enter in a plea of no contest
-avoid guilt
-less time
-you believe they have strong evidence against you
Why might someone agree to a plea bargain?
-save time of going to jail
-could get a lighter sentence
when should you speak in court?
Only when asked to
What did you have for breakfast today?
fried egg, english muffin, hot cereal, fruit