Those who claim amnesia for a criminal offense require the expertise of a highly qualified psychiatrist to determine if memory loss exists and the cause of the memory loss. Whether it is substance use, heightened emotions or an organic dysfunction, The Forensic Panel’s psychiatrist -- often working with a neuropsychologist -- will examine the individual using meticulous interviews combined with neuropsychological testing in order to assess the legitimacy and the nature of the alleged amnesia for their crime.
Peer Reviewed Psychiatric Amnesia Assessment
Tracing the origin and nature of the amnesia is important in appreciating if offenders acted knowingly and with intent, and whether individuals have the competency to stand trial and assist in their own defense given the ability to inform one’s attorney. A forensic psychiatrist of The Forensic Panel will educate the court as to the type of amnesia the individual has and the process that led to this conclusion. The psychiatrist will also offer an opinion about the role that amnesia played in the person committing the offense. The reliability and integrity of the forensic psychiatrist’s opinion is ensured by the peer review process of The Forensic Panel, in which highly qualified colleagues oversee the psychiatric examiner and neuropsychologist before conclusions and opinions are finalized.