Evaluation for Civil Commitment (Best Practices in Forensic Mental Health Assessments)

Forensic mental health assessment (Fmha) has grown into a specialization informed by research and professional guidelines. This series presents up-to-date information on the most important and frequently conducted forms of Fmha. The 19 topical volumes address best approaches to practice for particular types of evaluation in the criminal, civil and juvenile/family areas. Each volume contains a thorough discussion of the relevant legal and psychological concepts, followed by a step-by-step description of the assessment process from preparing for the evaluation to writing the report and testifying in court.

Volumes include the following helpful features:

- Boxes that zero in on important information for use in evaluations

- Tips for best practice and cautions against common pitfalls

- Highlighting of relevant case law and statutes

- Separate list of assessment tools for easy reference

- Helpful glossary of key terms for the particular topic

In making recommendations for best practice, authors consider empirical support, legal relevance, and consistency with ethical and professional standards. These volumes offer invaluable guidance for anyone involved in conducting or using forensic evaluations.

Evaluation for Civil Commitment gives readers comprehensive overview of the laws, policies, and evaluation practices focused on the civil commitment of persons with mental illness. This volume also provides ethical, clinical, and practical guidance for the clinician's role in such proceedings, including a summary of best practices for gathering information relevant to civil commitment hearings and providing testimony.