Abstract

ZAPF , Patricia A.  and  ROESCH , Ronald. Alternatives to inpatient evaluations of fitness to stand trial. Aná. Psicológica [online]. 1997, vol.15, n.3, pp.419-424. ISSN 0870-8231.

The article is focused on the issue of competency to stand trial and the need for reform in the manner in which individuals are evaluated by mental health professionals. The authors argue that criminal defendants for the purpose of evaluation are unnecessarily detered in forensic facilities for the purpose of evaluation fitness to stand trial. A large number of studies have demonstrated that community-based screening of fitness is both feasible and cost effective. Legal and Mental Health professionals will need to work toghether to ensure that this reform is realized.

Keywords : Competency to stand trial; Legal System Reform; Community-based screening of fitness.

        · abstract in Portuguese     · text in English     · English ( pdf )