Idaho § 19-2523 - Consideration of mental illness in sentencing
Full text of Idaho Idaho Statutes § 19-2523 — Consideration of mental illness in sentencing, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 19-2523. Consideration of mental illness in sentencing
(1) Evidence of mental condition shall be received, if offered, at the time of sentencing of any person convicted of a crime. In determining the sentence to be imposed in addition to other criteria provided by law, if the defendant’s mental condition is a significant factor, the court shall consider such factors as:
(a) The extent to which the defendant is mentally ill;
(b) The degree of illness or defect and level of functional impairment;
(c) The prognosis for improvement or rehabilitation;
(d) The availability of treatment and level of care required;
(e) Any risk of danger which the defendant may create for the public, if at large, or the absence of such risk;
(f) The capacity of the defendant to appreciate the wrongfulness of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the requirements of law at the time of the offense charged.
(2) The court shall authorize treatment during the period of confinement or probation specified in the sentence if, after the sentencing hearing, it concludes by clear and convincing evidence that:
(a) The defendant suffers from a severe and reliably diagnosable mental illness or defect resulting in the defendant’s inability to appreciate the wrongfulness of his conduct or to conform his conduct to the requirements of law;
(b) Without treatment, the immediate prognosis is for major distress resulting in serious mental or physical deterioration of the defendant;
(c) Treatment is available for such illness or defect;
(d) The relative risks and benefits of treatment or nontreatment are such that a reasonable person would consent to treatment. (of the offense charged.)
(3) In addition to the authorization of treatment, the court shall pronounce sentence as provided by law.
[19-2523, added 1982, ch. 368, sec. 10, p. 925.]
Source: official Idaho text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho § 19-2523
What does Idaho Statutes § 19-2523 cover?
Section 19-2523 ("Consideration of mental illness in sentencing") is part of the Idaho Statutes, the codified statutory law of Idaho. 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 Idaho § 19-2523?
A common citation format is "Idaho Statutes § 19-2523" (Idaho). 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 Idaho law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Idaho official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Idaho attorney.
How does Idaho § 19-2523 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Idaho 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 Idaho.