What impact did the acquittal of John Hinckley have on the insanity defense in the United States? Be sure to provide examples
What will be an ideal response?
John Hinckley, who attempted to assassinate President Reagan, was found not guilty by reason of insanity. This verdict troubled many experts in part because the prosecution was required to prove that Hinckley was sane beyond a reasonable doubt. Subsequent federal legislation places the burden on the defendant to prove their insanity by clear and convincing evidence. Some states also changed their law to place the burden of proof on the defendant. The federal government shifted the burden of proof to the defendant by clear and convincing evidence and eliminated any volitional test of insanity.
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a. True b. False
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a. completing paperwork b. danger c. confrontations with supervisor d. not making enough money
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a. True b. False
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a. True b. False