What is forensic psychology?

Forensic psychology is the practice of psychology in a legal setting.
The psychologist may be called to a legal case to offer analysis of an individual's state of mind, intelligence, personality, social functioning, behavior, addictions, and other aspects of personal development.
Judges and lawyers use psychologists as experts in cases that involve individuals who may have psychological features playing significantly in a case.
Areas typical for the use of a psychologist include
child custody and visitation rights and privileges
recommendations for sentencing for incarceration
potential danger to society or specific individuals
intellectual capacity and understanding of legal charges
potential for psychological or physical harm
fitness for duty at work or in military service

What does the psychologist do in forensic matters?

Psychological Assessment

of the alleged perpetrator of a crime
of a victim of an alleged crime
of family members of the victim or perpetrator who may play a part in the crime or recovery process
of family members who may or in the victim’s recovery
of allegations of offense, such as sexual or physical assault

Psychological evaluation

Personality assessment
Intellectual assessment
Neurological assessment
Interpersonal assessment
Mental health assessment
Assessment of addiction

Report

To the individual
To the referring attorney
To the Court directly

Consultation

It is sometimes valuable for an attorney to consult with the psychologist about a case to consider elements of the case that may have psychological implications. This consultation can be done by phone, email, or written statement. An attorney may wish to have some information about a psychological condition that impinges on a particular case.

Testimony

The psychologist may be called to render testimony in a case involving psychological factors affecting a legal finding or judgment. In such cases we usually consult with the attorney regarding the most effective way of presenting psychologically relevant evidence

Fees:

$175/hr