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Overview of the M'Naghten Criteria for legal cases, explaining its legal foundation, key components, real-life examples, and implications for psychiatric and legal professionals.

 Understanding M’Naghten Criteria for Legal Cases

The M’Naghten Rule, stemming from the 1843 case of Daniel M’Naghten, serves as a cornerstone for evaluating criminal responsibility concerning defendants with questioned mental states. It hinges on the premise that a defendant cannot be held legally accountable for their actions if, at the time of the offense, they were suffering from a mental disorder that significantly impaired their understanding of the nature of their act or its wrongfulness.