ALI standard
Also written as: ALI — American Law Institute
Legal test for insanity that combines cognitive and volitional components in determining criminal responsibility.
Full Definition
The American Law Institute's Model Penal Code test for legal insanity, which states that a person is not responsible for criminal conduct if at the time of such conduct as a result of mental disease or defect he lacks substantial capacity either to appreciate the criminality of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the requirements of law. This standard broadened the traditional M'Naghten rule by including both cognitive ('appreciate') and volitional ('conform conduct') prongs, though many jurisdictions have since eliminated the volitional component.
Usage
Usage note: Many states have modified or abandoned the volitional prong following the Hinckley case.
In Context
- "The jurisdiction applies the ALI standard, requiring assessment of both cognitive and volitional impairment." — Forensic evaluation methodology
- "Under the ALI standard, the defendant's ability to conform conduct to legal requirements must be evaluated." — Legal brief