When to instruct
Instruct a clinical psychologist where your client’s understanding, memory, communication or vulnerability may affect their participation, the reliability of their interview, or the sentence. Common referrals include suspected learning disability, autism, ADHD, low intellectual functioning and trauma.
Assessments a psychologist can carry out
- Intellectual functioning, usually using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale
- Suggestibility and compliance, relevant to the reliability of police interview admissions
- Memory, attention and executive function
- Learning disability, autism and ADHD screening and assessment
- Personality and trauma assessment
- Communication needs and recommendations for an intermediary
Psychologist or psychiatrist?
A psychologist measures functioning using validated tests and is well placed on cognition and vulnerability. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats mental illness and can recommend hospital orders. Many cases benefit from both. See our guide to choosing between them.
What the report covers
- Background and developmental history
- Tests used, with results and their limitations
- Clinical opinion on diagnosis and functioning
- Practical recommendations for the court
- CrimPR Part 19 declaration
Common questions
Are your psychologists registered?
Yes. All psychologists on our panel are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
Can testing be done by video?
Some interviews can be remote, but most standardised testing is carried out in person for validity.