Ethical Issues in Criminal Forensic Evaluation

Abstract: Psychiatric practices have been widely intervened by third parties, so that absolute confidentiality cannot be demanded. Forensic psychiatry holds a distinctive position in such practices. Ethics in forensic evaluations rely on the role of the psychiatrist. That role must be provided not only within the relationship with the truster, but also with the evaluee. The latter relationship has seldom been discussed. It is not the therapist-patient-relationship, leaving some therapist attitude. A warning (lack of confidentiality etc.) is necessary before the evaluation. Despite all, psychiatric evaluations cannot be conducted without some reliance. It is important to inform the evaluee of the evaluator's opinion prior to the trial, and involve the evaluee in the process of the evaluator's recognition.