The two-pronged Dusky standard specifies that a defendant must not only understand what is happening but also be ______.
A) agreeable to waiving his or her rights
B) represented by a competent attorney
C) able to assist in his or her own defense
D) undergoing restorative treatment

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The two-pronged Dusky standard requires that a defendant must not only understand the nature of the proceedings against them (prong one) but also have the ability to assist in their own defense (prong two). This means that the defendant must be able to communicate with their attorney and participate in the trial process, including making decisions about plea deals and testifying in their own defense. Therefore, choice C is the correct answer, as it relates to the defendant's ability to assist in their own defense.

The Two-Pronged Dusky Standard Specifies That a Defendant Must Not