Evolution of Forensic Social Work in the United States: Implications for 21st Century Practice

Abstract

This article maps the evolution of forensic social work in the United States in light of its past history and future possibilities. It begins with English Poor Laws of 1601 and Colonial Era and the establishment of forensic policy in the North American colonies, then focuses on the late 19th and early 20th century creation and establishment of the social work profession and its forensic aspects, and finally to the contemporary expression of forensic social workers to carry out or change those policies. Throughout American history, social justice and in later years, global and universal human rights were at the core of the theory and practice of forensic social work. Social workers understood that government, as author and institutor of policy, can and should be an arena for reform. Our foremothers and forefathers saw that advocating for their ‘‘clients’’ meant advocating for systemic reform, as they used an integrated two-pronged approach to social welfare in order to enhance human and community well being and to combat injustice. Their collective efforts set a high standard for contemporary social workers to surpass. For 21st century problems, forensic social workers are particularly well equipped to assume a leadership position and ongoing efforts in the pursuit of individual and social reform. The potential for the next century of forensic social workers is one of high anticipation. Our collective efforts of today are perhaps destined for tomorrow’s next history chapter. And together we also can make it a most memorable one.