Alternatives to inpatient evaluations of fitness to stand trial

 

Patricia A. Zapf (*)

Ronald Roesch (**)

 

ABSTRACT

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.

Key words: Competency to stand trial, Legal System Reform, Community-based screening of fitness.

 

RESUMO

Este artigo é dedicado ao tema da competência para a apresentação perante um Juiz e a necessidade de reformar o modo como os indivíduos são avaliados pelos profissionais de saúde mental.

Os autores argumentam que os arguidos são detidos desnecessariamente em estabelecimentos prisionais para a avaliação da sua capacidade para ir a julgamento. Através de um número alargado de estudos de investigação é possível demonstrar que a avaliação de base comunitária é não só possível como apresenta melhores índices em termos de custos.

Os profissionais do sistema judicial e da área da saúde mental precisarão de trabalhar em conjunto para assegurar que esta reforma se realiza.

Palavras-chave: Competência para ir a julgamento, Reforma do Sistema Legal, Avaliação de competência de base comunitária.

 

Texto completo disponível apenas em PDF.

Full text only available in PDF format.

 

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(*) Simon Fraser University, Canada.

(**) Simon Fraser University, Department of Psychology. Correspondence should be addressed to Professor Roesch, P.O. Box 8014-153, Blaine, WA 98231-8014, Canada, email: roesch@sfu.ca