New Jersey · New Jersey Revised Statutes — Title 2C, The New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice
N.J.S.A. Title 2C § 2C:4-4: Mental incompetence excluding fitness to proceed
What this law says, in plain English
A defendant lacking capacity to understand proceedings or assist in their defense cannot be tried, convicted, or sentenced. Mental competency to stand trial requires understanding the courtroom, charges, participants, and ability to participate in defense.
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