According to the M'Naghten Rule, when is a defendant considered insane?

Under the M'Naghten Rule, a defendant is considered insane if they are unable to distinguish between right and wrong at the time of the offense due to a severe mental disease or defect. This legal standard emphasizes the defendant's mental state, particularly their capacity to understand the nature of their actions and the moral implications of those actions.

The M'Naghten Rule arose from the case of Daniel M'Naghten in the 19th century and has since been utilized in various jurisdictions to evaluate claims of insanity. If the defendant, due to their mental illness, does not comprehend that their actions are morally or legally wrong, they may be deemed not guilty by reason of insanity. This principle reflects a compassionate understanding of individuals who lack the mental capacity to conform to societal expectations and legal standards.

Other choices, while pertinent to various aspects of legal proceedings, do not align with the specific criteria established by the M'Naghten Rule. For instance, merely failing to follow legal procedures or admitting guilt does not pertain to the mental status of the defendant at the time of the crime. Additionally, being unaware of the law doesn't imply a lack of understanding of the difference between right and wrong. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the core component of the M'Nag