Forensic Psychologist job description

A Forensic Psychologist applies psychological principles and expertise within the legal and criminal justice systems, conducting evaluations, assessments, and providing expert testimony to assist courts in making informed decisions. This role is critical for organizations as it bridges the gap between psychology and law, ensuring that psychological insights contribute to fair legal outcomes, risk assessments, and rehabilitation strategies.

Briefcase
Hiring for this role?
POST THIS JOB FOR FREE
Arrow
Folder Search
Find more suitable candidates for this role ?
TRY FOR FREE
Arrow

What is a Forensic Psychologist?

A Forensic Psychologist is a licensed professional who specializes in the intersection of psychology and the legal system. They use their expertise to understand criminal behavior, assess mental states, and provide insights that inform legal proceedings. This role requires a deep understanding of both psychological theories and legal standards, often involving work with courts, law enforcement, and correctional facilities. Forensic Psychologists must adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain objectivity while dealing with sensitive and high-stakes cases.

What does a Forensic Psychologist do?

Forensic Psychologists conduct psychological evaluations of individuals involved in legal cases, such as defendants, witnesses, or victims, to assess their mental competency, credibility, or risk of reoffending. They provide expert testimony in court, explaining psychological findings to judges and juries in a clear and objective manner. Additionally, they develop and implement treatment plans for offenders in correctional settings, conduct research on criminal behavior, and consult with legal professionals to inform case strategies. Their work often includes writing detailed reports, collaborating with law enforcement agencies, and offering recommendations for sentencing, parole, or rehabilitation programs.

Job Overview

Forensic Psychologist specializing in the intersection of psychology and the legal system, conducting evaluations for criminal and civil cases, providing expert testimony in court proceedings, and delivering treatment to individuals within the justice system. This role requires deep understanding of psychological assessment, criminal behavior, and legal standards within the U.S. judicial framework.

Forensic Psychologist responsibilities include:

1. Conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations for criminal defendants (competency to stand trial, insanity pleas, risk assessments) 2. Perform assessments for civil cases including child custody evaluations, personal injury claims, and disability determinations 3. Provide expert witness testimony in federal and state court proceedings 4. Develop and implement treatment plans for incarcerated individuals or those under court supervision 5. Conduct violence risk assessments and threat assessments for various legal contexts 6. Collaborate with attorneys, judges, and law enforcement agencies on case preparation 7. Prepare detailed forensic psychological reports adhering to legal standards and deadlines 8. Provide crisis intervention and mental health services within correctional facilities
Want to generate an attractive job description?

Must-Have Requirements

1. Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology from an APA-accredited program 2. Current state licensure as a Psychologist with forensic endorsement 3. Minimum 3 years of post-licensure experience in forensic psychological assessment 4. Extensive experience with psychological testing instruments (MMPI-2, PAI, Rorschach, IQ tests) 5. Proven track record of providing expert testimony in court proceedings 6. Thorough knowledge of DSM-5-TR and forensic assessment guidelines 7. Experience working with criminal justice populations in the United States 8. Strong understanding of legal standards and procedures (Daubert standard, Federal Rules of Evidence)

Preferred Qualifications

1. Board Certification in Forensic Psychology (ABPP) 2. Experience working in both state and federal court systems 3. Specialization in specific forensic areas (criminal responsibility, violence risk assessment, competency) 4. Previous experience in correctional psychology or institutional settings 5. Publication record in forensic psychology journals 6. Experience training law enforcement or legal professionals 7. Bilingual capabilities (Spanish preferred) 8. Experience with telehealth forensic evaluations

Bonus Skills

1. Experience with specialized forensic assessment tools (HCR-20, PCL-R, SIRS-2) 2. Knowledge of neuropsychological assessment in forensic contexts 3. Experience with capital case evaluations and mitigation specialists 4. Training in investigative psychology or criminal profiling techniques 5. Experience working with specialized populations (sex offenders, domestic violence perpetrators) 6. Knowledge of emerging areas in forensic psychology (cyberpsychology, immigration evaluations) 7. Experience with trauma-informed assessment approaches 8. Familiarity with specialized courts (mental health court, drug court procedures)

Are you ready to innovate your recruitment process?

Join thousands of leading companies and experience the next generation of intelligent recruitment

No credit card required | 7-day full-featured trial | Dedicated customer support

Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions, answered

Everything you need to know about TalentSeek and how itcan transform your hiring process.

What is TalentSeek

toggle

TalentSeek is an AI-powered global recruitment platform designed to make hiring talent worldwide faster, smarter, and more affordable. Powered by advanced AI Agents, TalentSeek helps companies effortlessly connect with top professionals across borders — breaking human network limits and reducing hiring costs. Start hiring globally with ease. One platform, endless talent.

Who can use TalentSeek ?

toggle

TalentSeek is built for recruiters. If you are searching for Global Talent or hard-to-find talent, TalentSeek is a fit for you. We work with companies ranging from Fortune 500 to boutique recruiting agencies — and hopefully, you too.

What distinguishes TalentSeek from other recruitment tools?

toggle

TalentSeek is an AI-driven global recruitment platform that enables real-time searching of over 900 million job seekers across more than 200 countries and regions. This platform empowers companies to effortlessly connect with top professionals beyond borders, breaking the limitations of personal networks and reducing hiring costs.

Does TalentSeek have access to global candidate data?

toggle

Yes. TalentSeek has 900 million profiles across the globe from dozens of data sources. Covers over 200 countries and regions worldwide.We continue to add region-specific sources to enhance global coverage.

Is there a free trial available for TalentSeek?

toggle

Yes. To get started, use the "Start for Free" button to open the platform. Then, sign up or log in to access your account.