This webinar will address starting forensic work within the context of an already established clinical practice. We will discuss the importance of maintaining a clear separation between forensic and clinical evaluations. Though forensic and clinical evaluations have much in common, there are a few areas of distinction that are critical for the clinician to consider. The language of a forensic report may be unfamiliar to many clinicians, and we will discuss such terms as “limitations” and “restrictions.” In addition, we will define levels of certainty, such as "more likely than not," that are often required of the forensic examiner. The webinar focuses on independent medical examinations (IME) and file reviews. In addition, the presentation will cover ethical considerations such as "dual roles" that are important for the clinician to consider when maintaining both a clinical and forensic practice. We will also discuss the importance of making statements that are objective, verifiable, and remain within the limitations of the information available. This webinar does not offer marketing advice, but rather provides the clinician thinking of entering the forensic realm with tools to navigate new territory and successfully meet exciting challenges.

After the webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Distinguish between a clinical and a forensic referral.
2. List key points to discuss with the claimant prior to an IME.
3. List and discuss primary ethical considerations when conducting IME’s and file reviews.
4. Outline ways of approaching typical challenges such as third-party observers, release of raw data, prospective test selection by a third-party, and demands to reveal test lists in advance.
5. List and describe examples of effective forensic report-writing.

Target Audience: Licensed neuropsychologists presently engaged in clinical practice who desire to make civil forensic referrals a part of their professional work.

Instructional Level: Introductory