Forensic psychology is a sub-field of psychology that interacts directly with the justice system in all jurisdictions.

1. www.helpingpsychology.com Practicing Forensic Psychology

2. www.helpingpsychology.com Forensic psychology is a sub-field of psychology that interacts directly with the justice system in all jurisdictions. A forensic psychologist is educated in one or more fields of psychology including, clinical, organizational and social, among others.

3. www.helpingpsychology.com One of the primary functions of a forensic psychologist is to testify in court cases regarding the facts of the case that may relate to the state of mind of the criminal, the victim or the psychological profile of the criminal or victim. Above and beyond the education required to become a psychologist, forensic psychology requires an intimate understanding of how the justice system works and evidentiary rules regarding testimony.

4. www.helpingpsychology.com A judge must deem a psychologist an expert witness based on his or her level of field expertise and education. Once a judge has designated a forensic psychologist an expert witness, he or she then has the court credibility necessary to testify in a case. Frequently, an expert in forensic psychology is asked by the court to determine if a defendant is legally competent to stand trial.

5. www.helpingpsychology.com It is very important for a forensic psychologist to translate psychological findings into the legal requirements of the court in order for the judge to make an effective ruling on the case. http://www.worldwidelearn.com/img/spotlight/argosy-university/forensic-psychology/forensic-psychology2.jpg

6. www.helpingpsychology.com Forensic psychology also frequently requires court-related recommendations as to sentencing and treatments for defendants. In addition to their courtroom duties, practicing forensic psychologists are frequently contacted to train police and other law enforcement agencies in criminal behavior and victim identification. They often work with all aspects of the legal system including the public defender’s office, the district attorney’s office and private defense attorneys.

7. www.helpingpsychology.com Forensic psychology is also the basis for behavioral analysis, which serves to provide law enforcement with a profile of an unknown criminal subject. Working as a forensic psychologist is both a rewarding and a challenging field of practice for licensed psychologists. http://helpingpsychology.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/iStock_000001903638Small-300x224.jpg

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