What does a forensic psychologist do in family court?
Attorneys can choose to consult with a forensic psychologist about a particular psychological issue that may be relevant to a family court case. For example, there are a number of disorders and syndromes that can impact an individual’s ability to parent a child. Child abuse disrupts a child’s development in the areas of attachment, cognitive and behavioral functioning, and social adjustment. The impact of child abuse may need to be evaluated by a psychologist in family court. A forensic psychologist can evaluate a family in order to make recommendations regarding parenting time and decision-making in high-conflict divorce cases, and can then testify about the findings. A forensic psychologist can assist attorneys by conducting psychological evaluations in various types of family law cases.
