The Supreme Court (SC) on Thursday said a person does not need a documented history of mental illness to claim legal insanity as a defense.
In a decision written by Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, the SC’s Third Division clarified that while prior medical records can be relevant, they are not required to prove the accused’s medical condition led to the crime.
As such, the absence of documented psychiatric history should not be taken against the accused claiming legal insanity.
The High Tribunal acknowledged the unfair burden on impoverished individuals who may not have access to psychiatric care, emphasizing that legal defenses should be equally available to all.
To require prior medical records “puts the impoverished at a disadvantaged position, who, due to circumstances beyond their control, are forced to brush aside conditions of their health in order to prioritize the immediate need to put food on the table and other necessities.”
According to the High Court, the plea of insanity, like any other similar defense available under the law, should always be equally accessible to all regardless of background or status.
