New Jersey § 2c:4-8

Full text of New Jersey New Jersey Statutes § 2c:4-8, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2c:4-8.

Commitment of a Person by Reason of Insanity. a. After acquittal by reason of insanity, the court shall order that the defendant

undergo a psychiatric examination by a psychiatrist of the prosecutor's choice. If the examination cannot take place because of the unwillingness of the defendant

to participate, the court shall proceed as in section 2C:4-5c. The defendant, pursuant to this section, may also be examined by a psychiatrist

of his own choice. b. The court shall dispose of the defendant in the following manner: (1) If the court finds that the defendant may be released without danger to the community

or himself without supervision, the court shall so release the defendant; or (2) If the court finds that the defendant may be released without danger to the community

or to himself under supervision or under conditions, the court shall so order; or (3) If the court finds that the defendant cannot be released with or without supervision

or conditions without posing a danger to the community or to himself, it shall commit

the defendant to a mental health facility approved for this purpose by the Commissioner

of Human Services to be treated as a person civilly committed. In all proceedings conducted pursuant to this section and pursuant to section N.J.S. 2C:4-6 concerning a defendant who lacks the fitness to proceed , including any periodic review proceeding, the prosecuting attorney shall have the

right to appear and be heard. The defendant's continued commitment, under the law governing civil commitment,

shall be established by a preponderance of the evidence, during the maximum period

of imprisonment that could have been imposed, as an ordinary term of imprisonment,

for any charge on which the defendant has been acquitted by reason of insanity. Expiration of that maximum period of imprisonment shall be calculated by crediting

the defendant with any time spent in confinement for the charge or charges on which

the defendant has been acquitted by reason of insanity. c. No person committed under this section shall be confined within any penal or correctional

institution or any part thereof.

Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey § 2c:4-8

What does New Jersey Statutes § 2c:4-8 cover?

Section 2c:4-8 is part of the New Jersey Statutes, the codified statutory law of New Jersey. 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 New Jersey § 2c:4-8?

A common citation format is "New Jersey Statutes § 2c:4-8" (New Jersey). 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 New Jersey law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Jersey official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Jersey attorney.

How does New Jersey § 2c:4-8 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Jersey 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 New Jersey.