Stanley is seeking help from a psychiatrist. After multiple sessions, he tells his psychiatrist that he has fantasies about killing a girl. Months later, Stanley actually kills the girl he spoke about during his sessions with the psychiatrist. In addition to the psychiatrist being tried for the girl's murder, the parents of the deceased sue her for damages because she didn't warn the police of the potential threat. In what categories of law is this case found?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This case involves substantive criminal law because it deals with the definition of crimes and punishments (the murder committed by Stanley and the potential legal consequences for the psychiatrist for not reporting the threat). It also involves civil law because the parents are suing for damages, which pertains to private rights and remedies sought through civil actions.

Stanley Is Seeking Help from a Psychiatrist