Sometimes people find themselves involved in a legal matter or hearing. Forensic or medico-legal psychological services involve assessments and reports that are objective, evidence-based, and dispassionate, prepared in a manner intended to assist a court or tribunal. Findings may be favourable or unfavourable to the subject of the report. Preparation of a forensic report is a multi-faceted process, which typically includes:

• Preliminary discussion with referring lawyer; consideration & clarification of letter of instruction
• Examination of the person(s) concerned, which ordinarily requires multiple interviews
• Elicitation of a comprehensive personal history by way of: person’s completion of questionnaire, review of pertinent historical reports, key informants, oral interview
• Discussions with family, relatives, or other parties where appropriate
• Administration and interpretation of selected psychological tests
• Mental status examination
• Development of psychological formulation and DSM-IV-TR diagnosis
• Consideration and review of all documents provided
• Relevant research activities
• Reflection upon and synthesis of information gathered
• Writing and finalisation of report with particular emphasis on relevant questions

Additionally, there may be further information or documents that come to light requiring review, attendance required at expert conferences, conferences with referring lawyer and other counsel, or attendance required to give evidence at a court or tribunal.

Forensic work is undertaken in the order of referrals but from time to time assessment and reports are presented with urgency.  Such urgent work is only undertaken on the basis of special request and mutual agreement.  Forensic services are provided in accordance with a fee schedule different than other clinical services.  When you need forensic services, please discuss them with Dr Zuessman to determine what approach can be taken.  Dr Zuessman is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and Law www.anzappl.org  .