Insanity defense reform

Insanity defense reform refers to changes in legal standards and practices regarding how mental illness is considered in criminal cases. Traditionally, if someone is found insane at the time of a crime, they can be found not guilty due to lack of criminal responsibility. Recent reforms seek to clarify how mental health issues are evaluated, often tightening criteria for the defense, emphasizing accountability, and ensuring that individuals with severe mental illnesses receive appropriate treatment rather than simply being released. The aim is to balance justice for victims with understanding the complexities of mental health in the legal system.