INCOMPETENCY

incompetency, n. Lack of legal ability in some respect, esp. to stand trial or to testify (once the defense lawyer established her client’s incompetency, the client did not have to stand trial). — Also termed incompetence; mental incompetence. Cf. INCAPACITY. [Cases: Homicide 816; Witnesses 35. C.J.S. Witnesses §§ 87–88, 90, 92.] — incompetent, adj.