Forensic Psych 101: What Lawyers Need to Know

In navigating complex cases involving individuals with mental disorders, behavioral abnormalities, or emotional damages, a nuanced understanding of forensic psychiatry and psychology is indispensable to legal professionals. This session aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these disciplines, exploring their roles in the legal system, methodologies for assessment and evaluation, and the pivotal role they play in informing legal decisions. 

Whether you are delving into criminal cases, civil litigation, or matters of competency, this presentation will equip you with essential insights to enhance your practice and ensure justice is served.

Learning Objectives:

1. Review the role and significance of forensic psychologists in legal cases, including the types of questions they can address and their methodologies
2. Differentiate between the education and training of forensic psychiatrists and clinical psychiatrists
3. Discuss the ethical considerations unique to forensic psychiatry and their impact on practice
4. Explore the evaluation process and assessment techniques used by forensic professionals, and the specific, complementary roles played by forensic psychologists and forensic psychiatrists in a two-part Independent Medical Examination (IME)
5. Develop strategies for effectively addressing and countering opposing counsel's expert opinions