Forensic Psychiatry Elective

This course is designed to introduce the student to legal issues related to the practice of psychiatry. The student will have the opportunity to work on forensic cases of both civil and criminal nature. Under the tutelage of the forensic supervisor, the student will learn first-hand about forensic processes, including doing a thorough document review, conducting a forensic evaluation, writing a report, communicating with the legal team, giving a deposition, and testifying in court. The student can also work with Physicians for Human Rights, alongside an experienced supervisor, conducting pro bono mental health evaluations and contributing to legal affidavits for the court in asylum cases. In addition, the student will have an opportunity to attend hearings at the District of Columbia Mental Health Court as well as the Mental Health Commission Hearing. The student is expected to conduct an academic project during the course, reviewing literature, preparing a manuscript, and collaborating on publishable papers or presentations.