People v. Soto

Frank X. Ai/timari, J.

“ ‘ But what did the Doormouse say?, ’ one of the jury asked. ‘ That I can’t remember,’ said the Hatter. ‘ You must remember,’ remarked the King, ‘ or I’ll have you executed.’ ” (Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.)

Sir William Blaekstone declared “If a man in his sound memory commits a capital offence, and before arraignment for it, he becomes mad, he ought not be arraigned for it; because he is not able to plead to it with that advice and caution that he ought. And if, after he has pleaded, the prisoner becomes mad, he shall not be tried; for how can he…