Facts of the Case
Dusky was charged with kidnapping and rape. He was schizophrenic, but was found competent to stand trial and was convicted. On petition of writ of certiorari, Dusky argued his conviction to be reversed on the grounds that he was not competent to stand trial.
Questions
Does the right to due process encompass the right to a competency evaluation before a defendant stands trial?
Conclusions
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In a per curiam opinion, the Court granted the writ of certiorari. The court reasoned that to be competent to stand trial, a defendant must have a sufficient ability to rationally consult with his lawyer and a rational and factual understanding of the proceedings. The Court emphasized that a brief mental status exam was insufficient to pass constitutional muster. Dusky’s case was remanded for retrial.
Remedying Criminal Trial Errors: Retrial or Acquittal in Smith v. United States?
Federalist Society Review, Volume 24
The best-known rule of criminal procedure is that the government may not deprive someone of...
