Incompetent to Stand Trial?

The Wall Street Journal Law Blog recently called attention to an interesting case in Philadelphia. A drug runner was arrested while transporting cocaine from the West to Philly by car. He turned out to be deaf and illiterate. He hasn’t spoken a word since the arrest. It is believed by authorities that he does not understand any language. His public defender has been unable to communicate with him to prepare for trial. Is he incompetent to stand trial?

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CLIFF TUTTLE has been a Pennsylvania lawyer for over 45 years and (inter alia) is a real estate litigator and legal writer. The posts in this blog are intended to provide general information about legal topics of interest to lawyers and consumers with a Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania focus. However, this information does not constitute legal advice and there is no lawyer-client relationship created when you read this blog. You are encouraged to leave comments but be aware that posted comments can be read by others. If you wish to contact me in privacy, please use the Contact Form located immediately below this message. I will reply promptly and in strict confidence.

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