Forensic psychologists and psychiatrists are increasingly asked to provide expertise to courts
and attorneys in the criminal justice system. To do so effectively they must stay abreast of
important advances in the understanding of legal standards as well as new developments in
sophisticated measures and the methods for their assessment. Fundamentals of Forensic Practice
is designed to address the critical issues that are faced by mental health experts in their
role of conducting assessments presenting findings and preparing for challenges to
admissibility and credibility.Uniquely practical and comprehensive this volume operationalizes
legal standards and describes empirically validated methods for their evaluation. Not only is
this essential for mental health professionals but it is equally valuable to criminal
attorneys. Lawyers require both clinical knowledge and understanding of legal standards in
order to prepare their own experts and to challenge those on the opposing side. For both
clinical and legal experts Fundamentals of Forensic Practice offers a full view of all phases
of criminal proceedings:- Pretrial-diversion determinations of bail waivers of Miranda rights
and the capacity to consent to searches. - Trial-competency to stand trial and criminal
responsibility. Beyond insanity the latter addresses mens rea automatism and psychological
context evidence such as battered-woman syndrome. - Post-trial-sentencing capital sentencing
competency to be executed and other post-conviction issues.Other key features include:-
Chapters on specific criminal issues in a consistent format with comprehensive coverage of
legal standards and relevant clinical methods - Guidelines for conducting more effective
forensic evaluations - In-depth coverage of specialized assessments eg. malingering sexual
predator cases and the insanity defense. - A detailed overview of direct and cross-examination
strategiesThis book is the second collaboration between Rogers and Shuman. As individual
authors each received the American Psychiatric Association's prestigious Guttmacher Award for
their outstanding contributions to forensic psychiatry.
