Forensic psychology is the application of the science and practice of psychology to the field of law and the legal system. A forensic psychological assessment is conducted to evaluate psychological functioning in order to assist the trier-of-fact in making a legal decision.

Forensic psychological evaluations are often requested to address very specific questions. Paper and pencil tests may be a component of the evaluation, though such testing is not always included. A thorough interview and collateral information are key elements to a forensic evaluation. The results of the evaluation can be provided, usually to the referring attorney and/or court, in written and/or verbal feedback. Testimony can also accompany an evaluation.

Criminal forensic evaluations:

• Criminal responsibility

• Diminished Capacity, Extreme Emotional Disturbance

• Trial competence

• Other issues of competence and/or capacity (e.g., to waive Miranda rights, to waive counsel, to be executed)

• Juvenile waiver evaluations

• Risk assessment (e.g., for pretrial secure placement, for placement post-adjudication, pre-sentencing assessment, probation and parole evaluations)

• Capital mitigation

• Parental capacity

Civil forensic evaluations:

• Fitness-for-duty (e.g., law enforcement, military personnel)

• Testamentary capacity

• Guardianship/conservatorship

• Competence to consent to treatment/research

• Risk assessment for sex offender recidivism

• Independent Medical/Psychological Examinations