Most evaluations consist of an extensive record review, comprehensive diagnostic interview, appropriate psychological testing, and contact with relevant collateral sources. Dr. James Reich tailors each evaluation to the needs of the client.

Typically, forensic psychiatrists don't work with people outside of court situations. They don't follow patients through the course of mental health treatment unless they need to gain information for the courts, defense lawyers, employers, or others with a legal interest in the case.

If you need to talk to a psychiatrist about a mental health issue outside of the legal arena, it's best to talk to a general psychiatrist or one who specializes in your type of mental health problems.

Dr. Reich is a member of both the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and the American Association of Psychiatry and the Law (AAPL). He follows the ethical guidelines of these two organizations.

A forensic psychiatrist is a medical doctor with specialized training and experience in the application of psychiatric knowledge to questions posed by the legal system. Some questions a forensic psychiatrist might receive are “Is the accused fit to stand trial? Should the teenager who brought a gun to school be suspended, expelled, or incarcerated? Can a person with a personality disorder knowingly intelligently waive their Miranda rights?”. Some of the things forensic psychiatrists do include providing psychiatric consultation in legal matters, and providing expert testimony in court cases. In summation, forensic psychiatry is a medical science that spans the fields of law, criminal justice, and psychiatry. If you think you may be in need of a forensic psychiatrist – please give us a call at 415-673-2229.