Forensic psychology is the practice of applying psychology to the law. It involves the application of scientific knowledge and methods to help answer legal questions arising in criminal, civil, contractual, or other judicial proceedings. Forensic psychology includes research on various psychology-law topics, such as jury selection, reducing systemic racism in criminal law, eyewitness testimony, evaluating competency to stand trial, or assessing military veterans for service-connected disability compensation. Forensic psychologists may hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, social psychology, organizational psychology, school psychology, or experimental psychology under accredited institutions. Additionally, two years of supervised experience in their field is necessary.

Forensic psychologists offer their professional expertise to aid the judicial system in civil and criminal matters. They interact with attorneys, judges, victims of crime, and criminal offenders. The most frequent duty of forensic psychologists is the psychological assessment of individuals who are involved, in one way or another, with the legal system. Therefore, although it is necessary to have training in law and forensic psychology, the most important skills a forensic psychologist must possess are solid clinical skills. Forensic psychologists complete evaluations and assessments to assess a persons psychological state for legal purposes. During trials, forensic psychologists often serve as advisors and expert witnesses. They can provide insight on client competency, sentencing, and treatment. By analyzing crime scene evidence, these psychologists develop criminal profiles to narrow down suspect lists. Additionally, forensic psychologists act as consultants to legal and administrative employers.

Forensic psychology has grown in the past 20 years. Forensic psychology is a specialty in professional psychology characterized by activities primarily intended to provide professional psychological expertise within the judicial and legal systems. The distinctiveness of forensic psychology is its advanced knowledge and skills reflecting the intersection of legal theory, procedures and law with clinical issues, practice, and ethics. Forensic psychology involves the application of psychological principles, theories, and skills to the understanding and functioning of the legal and crim...