What is a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist?
Both Clinical and Forensic Psychologists are trained in assessing and treating patients with a variety of mental disorders and issues. However, the Forensic Psychologists focus is on assessing patients in the judicial system and act as an expert witness in court cases where psychological standing of a defendant is needed to be known for trial or sentencing purpose. Forensic psychology deals with all aspects of psychology that are relevant to the due process of law in both the criminal and civil courts. Common psycho-legal issues requiring a psychologists input include competence to stand trial, personal injury compensation, diminished criminal responsibility, juvenile delinquency, dangerousness, violence proneness, risk of recidivism, and pre-sentencing assessment with treatment recommendations.
