Arizona § 13-4503 - Request for competency examination; jurisdiction over competency hearings; referral
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-4503 — Request for competency examination; jurisdiction over competency hearings; referral, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13-4503. Request for competency examination; jurisdiction over competency hearings; referral
A. At any time after the prosecutor charges a criminal offense by complaint, information or indictment, any party or the court on its own motion may request in writing that the defendant be examined to determine the defendant's competency to stand trial, to enter a plea or to assist the defendant's attorney. The motion shall state the facts on which the mental examination is sought.
B. The court may request that a mental health expert assist the court in determining if reasonable grounds exist for examining a defendant.
C. Except as provided in subsection D of this section, after any court determines that reasonable grounds exist for further competency proceedings, the superior court shall have exclusive jurisdiction over all competency hearings.
D. The presiding judge of the superior court in each county, with the agreement of the justice of the peace or municipal court judge, may authorize a justice court or municipal court to exercise jurisdiction over a competency hearing in a misdemeanor case that arises out of the justice court or municipal court.
E. A justice of the peace or municipal court judge, with the approval of the presiding judge of the superior court and the justice or judge of the receiving court, may refer a competency hearing to another justice court or municipal court that is located in the county.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 13-4503
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-4503 cover?
Section 13-4503 ("Request for competency examination; jurisdiction over competency hearings; referral") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 13-4503?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-4503" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 13-4503 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.