Connecticut 2024 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05415

Introduced
3/5/24  
Introduced
3/5/24  
Refer
3/5/24  

Caption

An Act Concerning The Issuance Of A Standing Criminal Protective Order When A Person Is Found Not Guilty By Reason Of Lack Of Capacity Due To Mental Disease Or Defect.

Impact

The impact of HB 5415 reflects a shift in how the legal system approaches cases involving mental health. By permitting courts to issue standing protective orders, the bill addresses potential gaps in victim protection that may exist when a defendant is acquitted due to mental incapacity. This legislative change is designed to fortify safeguards against potential future harm to victims, giving them legal recourse even when the accused is not criminally convicted. It signifies a progressive approach in integrating mental health considerations into the judicial process.

Summary

House Bill 5415 proposes an amendment to the existing legal framework governing the issuance of standing criminal protective orders. Specifically, it allows courts to issue these orders for individuals found not guilty due to a lack of capacity stemming from mental disease or defect. This change aims to enhance victim protection and public safety by enabling courts to impose protective measures even when the defendant is not held criminally responsible. The bill intends to balance the legal rights of individuals deemed incapable of understanding their actions with the need for protective interventions in cases involving sensitive circumstances.

Contention

While the bill is poised to enhance security for victims, it may also raise points of contention regarding due process and the rights of individuals found not guilty due to mental incapacity. Critics might express concerns over the fairness of imposing protective orders without a conventional conviction, as it could lead to a perceived stigma against those with mental health issues. Balancing public safety with individual rights is likely to be a significant discussion point among legislators and advocacy groups, necessitating careful consideration of the implications of such protective measures in the context of mental health and legal responsibility.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00316

An Act Concerning Commitment Of A Person Found Not Guilty By Reason Of Mental Disease Or Defect.

CT SB01112

An Act Concerning Commitment Of A Person Found Not Guilty By Reason Of Mental Disease Or Defect.

CT SB00307

An Act Concerning The Inheritance Rights Of A Beneficiary Or Survivor Who Is Found Not Guilty Of Murdering The Deceased By Reason Of Mental Disease Or Defect.

CT SB00213

An Act Concerning The Inheritance Rights Of A Beneficiary Or Survivor Who Is Found Not Guilty Of Murder Or Manslaughter By Reason Of Mental Disease Or Defect.

CT SB00261

An Act Concerning The Inheritance Rights Of A Beneficiary Or Survivor Who Is Found Not Guilty Of Murder Or Manslaughter Of The Deceased By Reason Of Mental Disease Or Defect.

CT HB05341

An Act Concerning The Designation Of A Person Convicted Of Criminal Violation Of A Standing Criminal Protective Order As A Persistent Offender.

CT SB00979

An Act Concerning Notification To Schools And Institutions Of Higher Education Of Restraining Orders, Civil Protection Orders And Standing Criminal Protective Orders Affecting Students.

CT SB00507

An Act Concerning Commitment Of Individuals Found Not Guilty By Reason Of Mental Defect Or Disease.

CT AB307

Eliminating criminal defenses of adequate provocation, self-defense, or not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect if the claim is based on the victim's gender identity or sexual orientation.

CT SB307

Eliminating criminal defenses of adequate provocation, self-defense, or not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect if the claim is based on the victim's gender identity or sexual orientation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.