Mental Health Evaluations in Utah Criminal Defense

 Posted on December 10, 2024 in Criminal Defense

If you are charged with a crime in Utah, many factors can influence the outcome of your case. A judge will consider any criminal record, extenuating circumstances, and the severity of the crime before deciding about a conviction. As the defendant, your mental health is another very important factor that will help a judge make a decision. 

Mental health evaluations are crucial in criminal defense because they can help determine whether the defendant was mentally stable at the time of the crime or should not be held responsible for his or her actions, whether the defendant is mentally fit to stand trial, and whether an alternative to a typical sentence is appropriate. To learn more about how a mental health evaluation can impact your case, speak with an accomplished Salt Lake City, UT criminal defense lawyer.

What is a Mental Health Evaluation?

If you undergo a mental health evaluation, a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, assesses you and your mental state. The evaluator will examine how your mental health affects your decision-making and behavior. This evaluation is important in criminal cases if the defense wants to demonstrate that the defendant was suffering from mental health issues at the time of the crime or is unfit to stand trial. A mental health evaluation can accomplish several things, including:

Determining Competency to Stand Trial

Defendants must be mentally competent to stand trial for a trial to be considered valid. They need to understand the charges, be capable of assisting in their defense, and be able to participate in their trial. If someone is found to be mentally ill or unable to understand the legal process, they could be sent for treatment to restore their mental fitness before the trial can continue, or there could be no trial. 

Establishing the Defendant’s Mental State When the Crime Was Committed

If a defendant was suffering from a mental illness at the time of the crime, the court can look at the entire situation differently. For example, if someone was experiencing a severe mental health episode, such as a psychotic break, it is likely their behavior and judgment were affected and it might not be appropriate to hold them legally responsible for what happened. A defense attorney can argue for reduced charges or a different type of consequence, such as treatment instead of a jail sentence.

Tailoring Sentences to Mental Health Needs

A mental health evaluation can help a judge decide on the most appropriate sentence when a defendant has an established mental health disorder. Instead of a prison sentence, the judge might recommend mental health treatment, counseling, or inpatient care. This can be more beneficial in the long run not only for the individual but also for society, as it is a way for the court to consider underlying mental health issues and prevent future criminal behavior.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Davis County, UT Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges, speak with a seasoned Salt Lake City, UT criminal defense attorney about whether it is advisable to pursue a mental health evaluation. At Collins Rupp, P.C., we are dedicated to helping all our clients get the best outcome for their cases, whether that means a reduced sentence, dropped charges, or mental health treatment to address underlying issues. Call us at 385-777-2753 to schedule a free consultation so we can further discuss how we plan to assist you.