Involuntary Medication, Trial Competence, and Clinical Dilemmas: Implications of Sell v. United States for Psychological Practice

The recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Sell v. United States (2003) raises a number of challenging issues for mental health professionals regarding the involuntary medication of individuals who are incompetent to stand trial. The authors examine the Sell decision, other relevant legal decisions, and research findings on coercion and procedural justice, and discuss the implications for mental health professionals involved in the treatment and assessment (both clinical and forensic) of defendants who may be affected by Sell . The authors conclude by proposing recommendations for mental health professionals working with defendants in Sell contexts.