SB 2294

Abstract

Amends the Criminal Code of 1961. Provides that a defendant who intends to assert a defense that he or she was insane at the time of the alleged offense must so notify the State in writing within the time provided for filing a pretrial motion, or at any later time the court sets, and file a copy of the notice with the clerk of the court. Provides that a defendant who fails to do so cannot rely on an insanity defense. Provides that the court may, for good cause, allow the defendant to file the notice late, grant additional trial-preparation time, or make other appropriate orders. Provides that if a defendant intends to introduce expert evidence relating to a mental disease or defect or any other mental condition of the defendant bearing on either: (1) the issue of guilt or (2) the issue of punishment in a capital case, the defendant must, within the time provided for filing a pretrial motion or at any later time the court sets but not less than 60 days before trial, notify the State in writing of this intention and file a copy of the notice with the clerk of the court. Provides that the court may, for good cause, allow the defendant to file the notice late, grant the parties additional trial-preparation time, or make other appropriate orders. Effective immediately.