Can Dementia Trigger Incompetency to Stand Trial in Arizona?
The recent case of an Arizona man with Alzheimer’s who said he robbed a credit union because he could not afford to live on his social security check, raises questions of whether dementia can trigger incompetency to stand trial in Arizona. A report in Tucson.com noted Robert Francis Krebs told FBI agents that he didn’t […]
What are Telltale Signs of Mental Health Symptoms in Defendants?
Mental illnesses are not always obvious to outsiders. On occasions, offenders are not aware they are suffering from a mental health disorder. Family members are often oblivious and the criminal justice system fails to recognize the signs. At the Garcia Law Firm, we have a long record in helping people with mental illnesses after their […]
The Importance of Rule 11 in Arizona
During a trial in Arizona, a defense attorney may ask for a Rule 11 evaluation of his or her client. Under Rule 11, the defendant has the right to a full mental examination and hearing when reasonable grounds exist for it. A Rule 11 hearing may be held when a defendant is suspected of being […]
Understanding Arizona’s Rule 11
In the state of Arizona, mentally ill defendants have a right under Rule 11 to be examined for mental fitness concerning trial. If the defendant is suspected to be mentally incompetent, meaning unable to understand trial proceedings and assist in their defense, they will undergo a Rule 11 hearing. There must be substantial evidence of […]