CRIME AND LEGAL DEFENSE：A FORENSIC AND JUVENILE PSYCHIATRIC PERSPECTIVE

A historical overview of the relationship between law and medicine, particularly psychiatry, was presented along with the religious, social and legal aspects of the societies in the Western hemisphere as they affected the concepts and philosophy of the legal system in each society at different point in history. The evolution of the modern concept of juvenile court system and changing patterns of implementing the juvenile law in the United States, particularly the mental health evaluation process to determine the youths' competence to stand trial, were presented in detail. The ultimate goals of protecting the civil rights of children, adolescents and youths are emphasized.