ABU DHABI // An American woman on trial at the Federal Supreme Court for insulting the UAE in public will undergo a psychological evaluation.

The 25-year-old, who initially refused a lawyer, on Monday insisted that she be sentenced. However, her parents requested that a lawyer be appointed through the US embassy.

The lawyer then requested the evaluation, which was agreed to by the judge.

“Mental competence is a substantial component of any defence case. I can’t sentence you today with a request stating that you might have been unaware and irresponsible for your actions,” the judge told the defendant.

The accused waived her right to legal counsel to speed up court proceedings. She has been locked up since February 23.

She is charged with insulting the country and its leaders through verbal assault.

The judge told the defendant that she caused a scene at Abu Dhabi airport and insulted the country and its leaders in public, which she denied.

The woman said she was waiting for a taxi when two men approached her and did not like the way she spoke to them.

The hearing was attended by members of the US Consular Services.

The case was adjourned until May 16.

nalremeithi@thenational.ae