Forensic psychology is the application of
psychological knowledge and principles to legal matters. Simply, it is the
intersection of mental health and the law. Forensic psychologists use
various methods such as forensic interviewing and standardized
psychological tests to help courts, judges, and attorneys answer important
legal questions. Psychologists are the only mental health professionals specifically trained in the use of psychological tests. These
tests are one scientific tool that forensic psychologists use to measure any
given characteristic in an objective and standardized way. For example,
psychologists can use tests to quantify an individual’s intellectual abilities
and/or personality traits. Forensic psychologists commonly work in criminal,
civil, and family courts.
The following are some examples of questions
that Dr. Weiss can help legal professionals answer:
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Did a battered woman who killed her abuser,
or a juvenile who killed his abusive parents, do so in
self-defense? |
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Is a criminal defendant feigning mental illness
or cognitive impairment in order to evade prosecution? |
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How can effective information be conveyed to
jurors to help them understand the mental illness of the defendant on trial? |
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What is the extent of an accident victim's
cognitive impairments and psychological injuries? |
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Is it in the best interest of a child who has
allegedly been sexually abused by her parent to continue to have contact
with that parent? |
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Would a criminal defendant be likely to
re-offend if released from custody? |
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Is a juvenile charged with murder competent
to stand trial in the adult criminal justice system? |
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Which potential jurors will best understand
this particular defendant’s situation? |
