ABSTRACT

An important dierence between forensic psychiatry and general psychiatry is that forensic psychiatrists are investigators whose assessment must include information beyond the clinical examination-that is, all data relevant to the legal issue at hand. For example, in criminal cases forensic psychiatrists should obtain, at a minimum, the police investigation reports, the crime scene forensic data, witness statements, and the defendant’s confession when available. In civil cases, forensic psychiatrists should review medical records of prior injuries, operations, or other traumatic experiences, as well as observations of others who have been involved in the care and treatment of the plainti. In sum, for forensic psychiatrists the clinical examination is necessary (when possible) but not sucient for a complete and comprehensive assessment.