How Mental Health Issues Can Impact a Long Island Criminal Case

How Mental Health Issues Can Impact a Long Island Criminal Case

Mental health issues can have a major impact on the outcome of a criminal case on Long Island. As a criminal defense attorney practicing in the area for over 15 years, I have seen many cases where a defendant’s mental health played a pivotal role. This article provides an overview of how mental health issues are handled in the criminal justice system here, and how they can affect the case at various stages.

Competency to Stand Trial

One of the first things evaluated is whether the defendant is mentally competent to stand trial. The law requires that defendants understand the charges against them and be able to assist in their own defense. If there are serious doubts about competency, the judge will order an evaluation by a psychiatrist or psychologist.

If found incompetent, the case is essentially put on hold while the defendant undergoes competency restoration treatment, usually for a period of 60-90 days. The case cannot move forward until competency is regained. I’ve had several cases over the years where we’ve gone through this process multiple times before the client was deemed competent.

Mental Health Defenses

There are two main mental health defenses that can potentially lead to a not guilty verdict or dismissal of charges:

• Insanity Defense: This argues that at the time of the crime, the defendant suffered from a mental defect or illness so severe that they did not understand the nature or consequences of their actions. Successful insanity defenses are extremely rare, but can result in commitment to a psychiatric facility rather than prison.
• Extreme Emotional Disturbance: Known as EED, this defense applies when a defendant commits an impulsive act while under the influence of an extreme mental or emotional disturbance. If accepted, a murder charge can be reduced to first-degree manslaughter.

To pursue these defenses, we retain mental health experts to evaluate the client and testify at trial. It involves intensive preparation, strategizing and attention to detail. I’ve found mental health defenses most successful in cases involving significant psychiatric history.

Sentencing & Disposition

Even if a mental health defense is not fully accepted at trial, a defendant’s psychiatric issues can still have an impact at sentencing. Under New York law, judges have discretion to consider a defendant’s mental health struggles as a mitigating factor, potentially leading to a more lenient sentence.

We make sure to gather records, documentation and testimony from mental health professionals showing how the client’s condition may have contributed to their criminal behavior. This can be vital in arguing for probation or reduced jail time.

Additionally, for eligible defendants, we advocate for diversion to mental health court rather than incarceration. This rigorous program provides court-supervised treatment instead of prison. Graduates can possibly earn dismissal of charges. As both a defense attorney and supporter of smart justice reforms, I believe this approach benefits the community when appropriate.

The Bottom Line

Mental illness affects people from all walks of life. For those charged with crimes, it can exacerbate their legal situation in complex ways. As Long Island criminal defense attorneys, being attuned to mental health impacts allows us to build the strongest cases possible.

If you or a loved one are facing charges while struggling with psychiatric issues, know that there are options. With an experienced legal team guiding the process, we can work to achieve the most favorable outcome given the circumstances. Don’t hesitate to learn more about your rights and how we can help