What is the job description of a forensic psychiatrist?
Forensic psychiatrists are medical physicians who are trained in mental health and the law. They are used as expert witnesses in trials to assist judges, attorneys and juries as to any questions regarding mental health.Forensic Psychiatrist vs. PsychologistForensic psychiatrists are medical doctors and as such can prescribe medication. They have specific additional years of education in mental health. Psychologists at the doctoral level have not attended medical school but have training in areas such as psychological testing.Evaluating DefendantsForensic psychiatrists use their education to complete an unbiased evaluation of a defendant and give this information to the attorneys. They evaluate several areas, including psychotic conditions, depression, hysteria and anxiety.TestifyingForensic psychiatrists provide testimony to a jury after their evaluation of the defendant. Although these professionals are not required to have a law degree, an informed psychiatrist on the court process i
