What does the insanity defense assert?

The insanity defense asserts that a defendant could not comprehend their actions due to a mental disorder at the time the crime was committed. This legal concept acknowledges that individuals who suffer from significant mental health issues may not have the capacity to understand the nature of their actions or distinguish between right and wrong. As a result, if a defendant successfully establishes this defense, they may be found not guilty by reason of insanity, which reflects the idea that punishment is justified only for those who have the ability to understand and control their behavior.

This understanding is rooted in legal principles that recognize the importance of mental capacity in determining criminal responsibility. The justice system aims to ensure that individuals who are genuinely unable to grasp the consequences of their actions due to mental illness are treated appropriately, rather than punished without consideration for their mental state.