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Forensic psychology works by providing those in the legal system with expert information about psychology and behavior that they wouldn’t otherwise have. Forensic psychologists do this through a range of services—conducting psychological assessments for court cases, assisting police officers with investigations, providing expert opinion, helping with mediation, and providing mental health care to victims or perpetrators of crimes.

Yes. In the event that it’s needed, an attorney or judge may appoint a forensic psychologist to provide an assessment and recommendation. This process involves multiple interviews with the child, the parent (or parents), and sometimes others. The psychologist assesses the parent’s mental health, strengths and weaknesses, and parenting practices to understand what’s in the child’s best interest. They then complete a report with recommendations based on their assessment.

In some cases they do. For example, criminal profiling involves collaborating with law enforcement officers to construct a profile of a perpetrator based on psychology, personality, and behavior as suggested by the crime in order to focus the investigation. They may also offer expert input on subjects related to a case such as deception, false confessions, and the reliability of testimony based on eyewitness accounts.

The length of time an individual works with a forensic psychologist depends on the relevant service. For example, if a forensic psychologist is conducting a psychological assessment for a court case, this may take one to two sessions to complete (although they can be more extensive). If the forensic psychologist is providing therapy to someone accused or convicted of a crime, treatment may last for several months or more.