Differing Aspects Of Forensic Psychiatry

By Robert McDonald


There are many different aspects to psychiatry and psychology. One of which is the field of forensic psychiatry. A type of psychiatry that is focused on medical and legal aspects of a crime. Mainstream psychiatry is primarily focused on severe mental illness with no attachment to crime. Whereas, this type psychiatry is used to determine a number of facts related to a crime scene or crime.

Those working in this area generally provide psychological testing for suspects. When asked to assist in solving crime, these individuals have been known to visit crime scenes or discuss suspect behaviors with family members. All of which can help determine whether or not an individual is competent to stand trial.

Those working primarily in a psychiatric capacity help determine whether or not an individual is fit to stand trial. If not, then these professionals can prescribe medications to see if an individual can be healed. It may also be necessary to provide ongoing counseling and therapy. Once complete, suspects are then provided a secondary psychiatric evaluation.

Individuals working in the areas of forensics can often be called as expert witnesses. These witnesses are generally called when a judge or jury can not clearly understand the facts of a case. After which, the psychiatrist may also be asked to help in sentencing, especially in the case of those found incompetent to stand trial.

These individuals are often called as expert witnesses in both criminal and civil trials. Whether giving an opinion on a specific issue or the well-being of a suspect, the work is important to those seeking a fair trial. Most often, these individuals will have already prepared and submitted a detailed report to the judge before testifying. After which, judge and jury must decide whether a suspect is guilty, not guilty or guilty by reason of insanity.

When a judge or jury lacks understanding in a case, then an expert witness can testify. When testifying, the psychiatrist must provide all information related to the opinion found during psychological testing and interviews. The professional must also provide information on the concepts, methods and approaches used to reach the opinion.

Whether or not a jury can use this opinion in sentencing often depends on where the trial takes place. For, different states have different laws related to the governing of juries and these type opinions. If an individual is found incompetent, sentences are sometimes shortened. Whether due to mental illness, or having spent time in a mental institution, these individuals have often seen sentences commuted or lessened. If so, the time removed often relates to the number of days, years or months spent in jail, prison or mental hospital.

A great deal of this type psychiatry is based on court rulings which prove significant to a specific crime or court case. Three standards are often used on all cases, all of which are related to mental illness. Whether having not realized a crime was committed, committing the crime due to a mental disorder or due to a lack of understanding of the law governing such crime.




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