Customer Reviews

Psychological Evaluations for the Courts: A Handbook for Mental Health Professionals and Lawyers, Second Edition

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
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If you buy only one book to gain an introduction, or update on the area of forensic psychology, this must be it. The authors have gathered legal precedent, research, illustration, and opinion, while retaining readability. It is long - especially with double column pages - but well worth it. An added feature is that the authors, through the publisher, maintain a web site for periodic updates to the book and relevent case law.

Not a light Sunday afternoon read, this book requires time to think and digest topics. It provides outstanding survey and advanced analysis of research, U.S. laws, and policies across the major foci. While a bit dated, it probably is the best source for gaining an understanding of forensic mental health. An outstanding reference. I feel somewhat odd in reviewing this book, almost like, I'd imagine someone feels when reviewing the Bible. Well worth the price. I wish it would have an annual or biannual update.

I have used this book extensively both as teacher and practitioner for years and it remains the best available text for mental health professionals conducting evaluations for the legal system. It is also an outstanding reference for attorneys litigating mental health issues. Its greatest strength is in the criminal law area, but it is excellent in other areas of the law/mental health interface as well. Psychiatrists should not be deterred by the term "psychological" in the title; it is equally applicable to both disciplines.

Excellent reference, but a little outdated as of this writing (Dec. 2001). Opinions and recommendations of the authors do not in all respects reflect the majority, or even the respectible minority, of forensic psychologists and psychiatrists. Nonetheless, an excellent reference to have in your library to get the overall gist of an issue or a topic at the interface of psychology and the law. Detailed information pertaining to actual practices will need to be located elsewhere.

It was recommended that I have this book by the credtialing agency. It has information that both legal and mental health professionals need to understand each side in a forensic evluation.

This book was mandatory for a forensic case law course taught by a seasoned forensic expert. It is thorough, accurate, and provides everything one needs to know before conducting forensic evaluations, as well as a significant amount of information most professionals ought to know but often don't. I recommend it as a tremendous resource for any clincian, especially those who have even a mild interest in forensic or correctional psychology.