Factsheet

Factsheet: Mental illness and the Criminal law

This explains the two main ways in which mental illness becomes an issue in criminal trials. Using case examples, it details when an accused is deemed unfit to stand trial due to mental illness. It also examines the defence of mental impairment, when an accused may argue they cannot be held criminally responsible for their behaviour due to their mental state at the time of offending.

Learn about the law

Events, information and resources to understand Victoria's legal system and where the law can help.