NCJ Number
111150
Date Published
1988
Length
244 pages
Annotation
This book presents recent changes in mental health law and forensic psychiatry that have occurred primarily in commitment law, criminal law, and diagnostic techniques.
Abstract
Since the publication of the first edition of this book in 1975, major changes have occurred in law and psychiatry, notably in the areas of civil commitment, criminal responsibility, personal injury, and malpractice. The care of the mentally ill has been changed markedly by the policy of deinstitutionalization. The attempted assassination of President Reagan brought changes in laws on criminal responsibility and the commitment of those found not guilty by reason of insanity. Posttraumatic stress disorder is a recognized dimension in personal injury cases. In these and other cases, the psychiatrist is increasingly involved as witness or party. This second edition contains information of practical importance to lawyers and psychiatrists working together in criminal and civil-legal matters and addresses such issues as the legal regulations of psychiatric practice, confidentiality, privileged communications, patients' rights of privacy, commitment proceedings, patients' right to treatment and to refuse treatment, and competency to stand trial. The strengths and weaknesses of psychiatric examinations and consultations are discussed. Chapter references, glossary, and subject index.