Pennsylvania — Statute

1982 – Amendment | Pennsylvania Law

Learn about Pennsylvania's legal insanity defense, including how 'legally insane' is defined and when it applies in criminal cases.

Legal Content

Pennsylvania State Law

1982 – Amendment

Pennsylvania Title 18 - Crimes and Offenses § 1982

Summary

Pennsylvania law Section 1982 addresses the legal insanity defense, specifying that a defendant can only claim insanity if they prove they were legally insane at the time of the offense. It defines 'legally insane' as being unable to understand the nature of the act or that it was wrong due to a mental defect. The law applies to all cases filed after its effective date.

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Explain Like I'm 5

In simple terms: Learn about Pennsylvania's legal insanity defense, including how 'legally insane' is defined and when it applies in criminal cases.. This means people must follow this rule, and breaking it can lead to criminal penalties.