Opinion ID: 2277667
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: Trial Court Decision: Form and Content

Text: Within five days of the conclusion of the hearing, the trial judge shall file an order which shall contain detailed findings of fact and conclusions of law granting or denying the prisoner's petition. Although likely based upon expert medical and mental health testimony, the ultimate question as to whether the prisoner is competent is a question of fact. See Ford, 477 U.S. at 412, 106 S.Ct. at 2603 (plurality opinion) (the ultimate decision will turn on the finding of a single fact ...); cf. Maggio v. Fulford, 462 U.S. 111, 103 S.Ct. 2261, 76 L.Ed.2d 794 (1983) (holding that competency to stand trial is a question of fact). Therefore, in the written findings of fact, the trial court shall set out any undisputed facts, explain its assessment of the credibility of the various expert witnesses and their conflicting opinions, and include findings as to the prisoner's behavior during the hearing. Harris, 789 P.2d at 72.