Experienced Mental Health Defense Attorney in Massachusetts

No group of people is more in need of an advocate than the mentally ill. When a loved one who is mentally ill is charged with a crime, the road ahead is difficult because judges and prosecutors are often poorly informed and therefore unsympathetic. The Boston criminal defense law firm Keith Halpern, Attorney at Law not only has sympathy for mentally ill people accused of crimes, we have extensive experience advocating for and defending them in court.

Determining Competency To Stand Trial in Massachusetts Criminal Cases

To determine whether a defendant is mentally fit to stand trial, the first consideration is whether (s)he has the ability to consult with a lawyer in a reasonable fashion as well as shows a factual, rational understanding of the charges held against him or her. If competency is questioned, the judge will summon a mental health professional to the case. The mental health specialist will conduct an evaluation to determine the defendant’s competency level and sanity.

Regardless of whether the court-appointed mental health specialist determines to be true, Attorney Halpern knows how to navigate through the findings. Our Boston criminal defense law firm knows first hand that not every mentally afflicted person shows their illness all the time. There are legal avenues for mentally ill people who unknowingly commit a crime, or commit a crime during a mental illness “episode” and lacked the mental capacity to determine right from wrong in the moment of the criminal action.

Call Our Boston Criminal Defense Law Firm Today

Rest assured you receive representation from a top criminal defense law firm in Boston. We have one goal: getting the best possible outcome for our client’s case. Attorney Keith Halpern offers professional and experienced legal services, and is prepared to defend you both inside and outside of the courtroom. Contact Attorney Halpern today at [custom:phone] to discuss your legal options.