Forensic Psychology in Military Courts

This book provides a comprehensive review of the many valuable roles that psychologists can play in courts-martial and how they can collaborate with military attorneys to make effective trial teams. Even though psychologists are becoming increasingly important in military trials, many are unfamiliar with the unique nature of this system. Likewise, lawyers often do not know how to effectively utilize psychologists’ expertise. This volume thus offers much-needed guidance for civilian psychologists and military counsel alike.

The chapter authors are forensic psychologists and military legal personnel---including defense attorneys, prosecutors, and judges--who offer expert tips and strategies for navigating the court-martial process. They introduce psychologists to the rules, procedures, and people involved in military trials. They also explore psychologists’ many potential responsibilities, such as trial and litigation consulting, assisting with panel selection, conducting pretrial witness interviews, educating legal counsel about psychological science, administering psychological evaluations, and testifying as expert witnesses. Chapters also address ethical and legal issues related to potential role conflicts and protecting therapist--client privilege.