Legal Definitions - Insanity Defense Reform Act of 1984 test

The Insanity Defense Reform Act of 1984 test is a legal test used in criminal cases to determine if a defendant can be found not guilty by reason of insanity. This test requires clear and convincing evidence that at the time of the crime, the defendant suffered from a severe mental disease or defect that prevented them from understanding that their actions were wrong.

For example, if a person with schizophrenia commits a crime while experiencing a delusion that they were being attacked, they may be able to use the insanity defense if they can prove that their mental illness prevented them from understanding that their actions were wrong.

The Insanity Defense Reform Act of 1984 test is used in conjunction with the plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. If a defendant is found not guilty by reason of insanity, they may be committed to a mental health facility instead of being sent to prison.