Citation

Gold A, Appelbaum PS. Psychiatr. Serv. 2011; 62(7): 707-709.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, American Psychiatric Association)

DOI

10.1176/appi.ps.62.7.707

PMID

21724780

Abstract

Should a murderer be allowed to inherit the victim's estate? The question dates from biblical times, but most jurisdictions today have statutes in place that bar inheritance by convicted murderers. However, a special problem arises when the killer has a severe mental illness and has been found not guilty by reason of insanity. Should such people, who have not been convicted of a crime, be permitted to collect their inheritance? Jurisdictions vary in their responses, with the rules reflecting a mix of practical and moral considerations influenced by different perspectives about what determines the behavior of persons with mental illness.

Language: en