Law Dictionary
not guilty by reason of insanity
1 : a plea by a criminal defendant who intends to raise an insanity defense —used in jurisdictions that require such a plea in order for an insanity defense to be presented
2 : a verdict rendered by a jury in a criminal case that finds that the defendant was insane at the time of committing the crime as determined by application of the test for insanity used in the jurisdiction — compare guilty but mentally ill
Explore Merriam-Webster
Additional Notes on not guilty by reason of insanity
A verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity usually results in the commitment of the defendant to a mental institution. Such a verdict, however, may allow the defendant to be released, sometimes into the custody or care of another (as a family member).
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up not guilty by reason of insanity? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!