Psychologists are increasingly being asked to give evidence in court as expert witnesses, yet for some it can be a harrowing experience. Writing Reports for Court provides essential support for psychologists when preparing a court report and giving evidence.
A well prepared report underpins an effective court presentation. The credibility of a psychologist called upon to prepare a report for court will be questioned if the document presented is viewed poorly. The court will place little weight on the report and the psychologist's professional reputation will be placed at risk.
This book offers guidance on the content and structure of reports, highlights the importance of assessments that directly address the legal questions under consideration, and includes detailed descriptions of relevant law and practice in Australia, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Singapore.
Featuring several comprehensive case studies, this book serves as an excellent resource for any working psychologist who may find themselves in a criminal court as well as any psychologist or student considering a career in forensic work.

Jack White is the principal of White & Associates Psychologists, a specialist forensic psychology practice based in Adelaide. He has a Doctorate Degree in Psychology from the University of Adelaide and is a Fellow of the Australian Psychological Society. He received the 2008 Award of Distinction from the Australian Psychological Society's College of Forensic Psychologists and is a past National Chair of that College. He taught within the Forensic Psychology Masters program (1999-2010) at the University of South Australia, and currently is an Adjunct Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Canberra. Academically he has published widely in areas that include report writing, psychometric assessment, Indigenous neuropsychology, mental impairment, intellectual disability, and criminal behavior in athletes.

Foreword
Preface
About the Authors
Chapter 1 Introduction
Difference Between a Witness of Fact and an Expert Witness
Guidelines for Expert Witnesses
The Report Structure
The Introduction
Background Material
Current Legal Matter
Chapter 2 The Psychological Assessment
Behaviour During the Assessment
Essential Elements of Psychological Tests
Performance Based Tests
Availability of Treatment or Rehabilitation
Impression Management and Malingering
Psycho-Legal Tests
Chapter 3 Opinion
Court Report: Mr Jack Jones
Court Report: Mr William Pitt
Court Report: Mr Leonard Panther
Court Report: Mr Jason Collins
Court Report: Mr Arthur Askey
Chapter 4 Going to Court as an Expert Witness
Know the Legal Landscape
Pre-Trial Consultation
Preparation
Getting Qualified or 'Proofed' as an Expert
The Scientific Expert
Examination in Chief
Cross-Examination
Re-Direct
Post-Trial Consultation
Advanced Performance
Chapter 5 Report Writing in Different Jurisdictions
United States of America
Canada
United Kingdom
Australia
New Zealand
Singapore
References
Appendix - Example Practice Direction
Glossary of Psychological Tests
Index