Section 15.2 Evaluation of the Defendant’s Mental Condition

• Library: Criminal Practice 2012 Supp

II. (§15.2) Evaluation of the Defendant’s Mental Condition

Counsel’s initial contact with the client should shed some light on whether there is a potential defense of mental disease or defect. Counsel’s personal observations of the client, how the client responds to questions, and the client’s personal appearance will aid in this determination. Counsel should discuss with the client any prior treatment or diagnosis of mental illness and any prior psychiatric treatments or examinations.

If the client is...