It's unclear so far how much Pedro Hernandez's psychiatric history could factor into the 33-year-old murder case. He remains in a psychiatric hospital, and authorities are awaiting the results of an examination to see whether he's mentally fit for trial.
His lawyer says the 51-year-old New Jersey man is schizophrenic and bipolar and has a history of hallucinations.
If Hernandez's mental health becomes an issue, he'll encounter a justice system that seeks to strike a balance between recognizing psychiatric illness and holding people responsible for their actions.
Meanwhile, Etan's father said in a note Tuesday that the family wants to be left alone.
