Court proceedings have been suspended for a Wailuku man charged with attempted murder of his wife while he undergoes mental health examinations.

Ricardo Tavares Jr., 41, will be examined by three psychiatrists or psychologists to determine if he’s mentally fit to proceed and whether he was suffering from a mental disease that would have affected his ability to appreciate the wrongfulness of his conduct.

Tavares has pleaded not guilty to attempted second-degree murder for allegedly stabbing his wife several times with a kitchen knife, causing life-threatening injuries, during a Super Bowl party Feb. 7, 2021, at their house.

In a declaration filed in court, defense attorney Gerald Johnson said the mental health examinations were sought based on his dealings with Tavares and a review of information provided in the case.

Second Circuit Judge Kirstin Hamman granted Tavares’ request during a Mental Health Court hearing Wednesday.

A Sept. 7 return date was set.