Question

what does rationality mean specific to competency? What does it mean for a defendant to have a “rational understanding” in regard to competency? Does it meant the defendant must understand every single aspect of the criminal process? If not, then what does it mean?

Answer 1

Note: This response is in UK English, please paste the response to MS Word and you should be able to spot discrepancies easily. You may elaborate the answer based on personal views or your classwork if necessary.

(Answer) In the United States, the Competency Evaluation system is one where an assessment is carried out to analyse the ability of the defendant to understand and rationally participate in court procedure.

Competency is a way that reflects a certain dignity of the procedure and a reverence for the laws. In these terms, rationality is not only a factual understanding of the situation but also a rational understanding from the defendant.

This may not mean that the defendant must know every minute aspect of the heavily detailed laws that are involved in a particular case, but rather a deep understanding of any law or regulation that the case entails.