The Insanity Defense: A Critical Assessment of Law and Policy in the Post-Hinckley Era - Hardcover

by Rita James Simon (Author), David E. Aaronson (Author)

No area of criminal law has been the subject of more controversy than the insanity defense. The Insanity Defense is a clear assessment of this issue as it exists in the 1980s. It provides the reader with a basis for understanding and evaluating the legislative and judicial responses to the factors that have stirred this controversy. Because extremely complex issues are involved in the effort to formulate an insanity defense, Simon and Aaronson begin with a detailed historical overview. They discuss the necessity of expert witnesses in the actual trial and probe into the jury's role and responsibility. The authors describe the various movements that have been used to abolish the insanity defense, as well as assess the use and interpretation of the defense in other nations.

Author Biography

RITA J. SIMON is Dean of the School of Justice at American University and editor of Justice Quarterly.

DAVID E. AARONSON is a Professor of Law at Washington College of Law at American University.