Neuropsychological Concerns

Abstract

This chapter is intended as a guide for trial consultants as well as legal, graduate, and undergraduate students interested in the application of neuropsychology to the legal setting. Before beginning our discussion on the forensic neuropsychological evaluation, a brief review of important terms and definitions will be provided. This chapter will discuss issues germane to the role of neuropsychology within a legal setting and will discuss relevant topics including (a) legal and ethical issues, (b) assessment, and (c) recommendations for rehabilitation of brain-injury sequelae. There are four cardinal principles that apply to the forensic neuropsychologist. These principles are (1) that optimal patient outcome is promoted by appropriate legal outcomes, (2) that the quality and quantity of neuropsychological evidence significantly impacts the legal outcome, (3) that multidisciplinary cooperation in litigation improves the legal outcome, and (4) that to ensure success, neuropsychologists must be forensically literate. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)