Forensic assessments link the field of behavioral sciences with the legal system, as mental health professionals are often recruited to conduct assessments and provide feedback in a variety of settings, including family, child, and civil courts. Typically involving an assessment of a youth’s mental and developmental disabilities, these must be accurate and thorough in order to ensure the fairness of the legal process and the youth’s ability to receive necessary mental health services. 

To help attorneys, jurists and experts better identify proper (and improper) forensic assessments, this Forensic Assessment in Delinquency Cases chapter provides detailed information and guidance, with particular topics including: