Concerns about a defendant's competence are tied to one fundamental principle:
Defendants who can afford to hire their own experts might be more likely to benefit from raising the issue of insanity
Understanding, judgment, impulsivity, and values are influenced by developmental, cognitive, neuropsychological, and other life influences
The highly publicized nature of an alleged offense affects the proceedings on the question of competence to stand trial
Criminal proceedings should not continue against someone who cannot understand their nature and purpose, or cannot assist in defending against prosecution on these charges