Safeguarding the Quality of Forensic Assessment in Sentencing: A Review Across Western Nations

This edited collection explores how to safeguard the quality of forensic assessment in sentencing offenders, providing an interdisciplinary and cross-national perspective. It examines the role of assessment in seven Western countries and how to ensure better decision-making in individual cases.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This edited collection offers a comprehensive and multi-faceted exploration of the vital task of safeguarding the quality of forensic assessment in the sentencing of offenders. Delving into seven distinct Western countries, each chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the role of assessment in sentencing offenders, while also shedding light on the formal mechanisms employed by these countries' legal systems and disciplinary associations to ensure the integrity and reliability of forensic evaluation. By examining the multifaceted aspects of psycholegal concepts such as mental disorder, criminal responsibility, and dangerousness, the chapters aim to provide valuable insights into how to make informed decisions in individual cases based on rigorous assessments.

Drawing upon the expertise of lawyers, legal scholars, and clinicians who specialize in the field, this book serves as a crucial resource for those engaged in forensic assessment as well as those who work closely with this field. The Open Access version of this book, accessible at http://www.taylorfrancis.com, has been made available under a Creative Commons [Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives (CC-BY-NC-ND)] 4.0 license, allowing for widespread dissemination and collaboration.

In conclusion, this edited collection is a vital contribution to the field of criminal justice, providing a wealth of knowledge and insights into the critical role of forensic assessment in sentencing offenders. By offering a multi-disciplinary and cross-national perspective, it empowers professionals and scholars alike to enhance the accuracy, reliability, and ethical standards of forensic evaluation, ultimately contributing to the justice system's pursuit of fairness and equity.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138577626