Can an Expert Witness Psychiatrist assess mental state at the time of the offence?
In criminal cases, understanding the defendant’s mental state at the time of the alleged offense can be pivotal. An expert witness psychiatrist can conduct thorough evaluations to determine whether the defendant was suffering from a mental illness that impaired their ability to differentiate between right and wrong or control their actions. This assessment is essential for cases involving the insanity defense or diminished responsibility, where the defendant’s mental health may mitigate their culpability. The psychiatrist’s testimony helps the court understand how psychiatric conditions may have influenced the defendant’s behavior during the crime.