Forensic mental health assessment (FMHA) has grown into a specialization informed by research and professional guidelines. This series presents up-to-date information on the most important and frequently conducted forms of FMHA. The 19 topical volumes address best approaches to practice for particular types of evaluation in the criminal, civil, and juvenile/family areas. Each volume contains a thorough discussion of the relevant legal and psychological concepts, followed by a step-by-step description of the assessment process from preparing for the evaluation to writing the report and testifying in court.
Volumes include the following helpful features:
- Boxes that zero in on important information for use in evaluations
- Tips for best practice and cautions against common pitfalls
- Highlighting of relevant case law and statutes
- Separate list of assessment tools for easy reference
- Helpful glossary of key terms for the particular topic
In making recommendations for best practice, authors consider empirical support, legal relevance, and consistency with ethical and professional standards. These volumes offer invaluable guidance for anyone involved in conducting or using forensic evaluations.
This book addresses evaluations for child protection, one of the most delicate legal arenas in which forensic mental examiners play a part. The evaluations are highly specialized, requiring child clinical specialization, a knowledge of the legal and social context, and a thorough understanding of the professional and ethical guidelines for child protection evaluations. This volume provides the foundation that any mental health professional needs when pursuing specialization in evaluating children and parents before the court in child abuse and neglect cases.

FOUNDATION
Chapter 1The Legal Context
Chapter 2 Forensic Mental Health Concepts
Chapter 3 Empirical Foundations and Limits
APPLICATION
Chapter 4 Preparation for the Evaluation
Chapter 5 Data Collection
Chapter 6 Interpretation
Chapter 7 Report Writing and Testimony
References
Tests and Specialized Tools
Case Law and Statutes
Key Terms
Index
About the Authors

Karen S. Budd is a Professor, Department of Psychology, DePaul University. Mary Connell is a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist, private practice. Jennifer R. Clark is Clinical Director for the Child Protection Division at the Cook County Juvenile Court Clinic and Assistant Professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.