Expert Forensic Psychiatrist
In today’s complex and litigious society, a multitude of cases are open for trial or settlement. A just outcome to these cases requires not only knowledge of the law, but also of the psychological elements that impact these cases. An expert Forensic Psychiatrist is often described as operating at the intersection of two major educational disciplines: Psychiatry and The Law. An expert forensic psychiatrist is a medical doctor with the additional training of a psychiatrist, and special training and experience in the application of psychiatric knowledge to questions posed by the legal system. A forensic psychiatrist may also have a clinical practice. Scientific and clinical issues are simultaneously applied to provide psychological knowledge within a direct legal context. The application may be through written evaluations or personal testimony in court proceedings. The legal issues requiring a Psychiatric Expert Witness are diverse and include areas of civil, criminal, domestic, correctional and legislative issues.
Whether the case involves evaluations for competency to make a will, determining undue influence, the presence of psychic injury, sexual harassment, product liability, malpractice, suicide, the competency to stand trial, addictions and substance abuse, or malingering, the dual disciplines of the Expert Forensic Psychiatrist provide material information that is important in determining the case outcome.
Conflicts between the law and psychiatry occasionally present themselves. The Expert Forensic Psychiatrist applies medical and psychiatric theories and practices to people and their legal issues.
Many mitigating factors can affect the just outcomes of cases. Discerning human motivation and intention are major factors in case outcomes, treatments, sentences and settlements. Therefore, the services of a highly ethical, experienced, Psychiatric Expert Witness are invaluable.
