Capacity

Synonyms

Competency

Definition

In the most basic sense, capacity refers to the ability to make decision(s) with regard to oneself. Specifically, this refers to one’s ability to understand and appreciate the consequences of one’s actions. Legal capacity remains in effect until death, unless a court rules that one is “incapacitated.” If a person is ruled by a court of law to be legally incapacitated, this can remove all or part of a person’s right to make decisions. Specifically, one can be deemed incapable of managing financial affairs but ruled capable of making medical decisions, for example. If a person is ruled to lack full legal capacity, then they are prohibited from entering into a contract, giving a power of attorney, creating a will, or consenting to medical treatment. A ruling of legal incapacity typically results in the appointment of a guardian or conservator to make decisions for the person. There are several types of capacity that are relevant to forensic neuropsychology...