Forensic Psychology Ltd works with adults aged eighteen years and over. Instructions are accepted from courts, Crown and defence counsel, the Ministry of Justice and related agencies, health and disability services, the Department of Corrections, Police, emergency services, insurers and comparable organisations. Private individuals are seen only when instructed and supported by their legal representatives.
When seeking to instruct the service, counsel or agencies are asked to outline the specific questions to be addressed and to provide relevant documentation such as summaries of facts, charge information, previous psychiatric and psychological reports, medical and mental health records, criminal history and any sentencing notes or orders already made. Information about funding arrangements, the person’s location and availability for assessment, and any safety, cultural or communication issues should also be included.
Timeframes and scope of work are agreed at the point of instruction, taking into account the complexity of the matter, the volume of material to be reviewed and any practical constraints in custodial or hospital settings. Very complex matters, or those requiring extensive document review and collateral enquiry, may require longer timeframes than routine assessments.