Discuss the conditions that need to be met in order for an individual to be found "competent to stand trial."

Answer:

Many more people are institutionalized because of findings of incompetence than because of insanity rulings. Competence is a defendant's ability to understand the legal proceedings that are taking place against him and to participate in his own defense. The U.S. Supreme Court defined competence this way: "The test must be whether he [the defendant] has sufficient present ability to consult with his attorney with a reasonable degree of rational understanding and a rational as well as factual understanding of proceedings against him." Competence refers to the defendant's current mental state and the defendant's ability to understand criminal proceedings. The defendant must show legal understanding, legal reasoning, and legal appreciation.