Forensic Social Work
Mitigation and more.
Forensic social workers are involved in both criminal and civil cases and assist individuals of all ages. We reach beyond traditional clinics and psychiatric services for criminal defendants. Trained in social work forensics and a member of the National Organization of Forensic Social Work, we work to diagnose, treat, and/or make recommendations about mental status, incapacities, the best interests of minors, and can serve as expert witnesses.
According to the United States Department of Justice, there are more than 600,000 adults and 60,000 juveniles incarcerated every day in the United States.
Forensic social workers handle numerous issues working with individuals who are involved with the criminal justice system. This includes issues related to child custody, child maltreatment, termination of parental rights, domestic abuse, elder abuse, divorce, civil disputes, juvenile and adult justice services, corrections, and mandated treatment. Forensic social workers link the legal world with the field of social work within their area of expertise.
YOUTH
When it comes to serving youth involved in the juvenile justice system, forensic social work services can be particularly beneficial.
Together, we can help reduce the risk of incarceration for youth and play a vital role in keeping youth out of the adult criminal justice system. We can also assist with elevating critical mitigating factors and identifying alternative community-based treatments.
Juveniles involved in the criminal justice system can be some of the most clinically demanding. This can be additionally problematic for youth of color who are often transferred to the adult criminal justice system. Despite reforms over the last two decades, youth of color disproportionately face harsher punishments and transfers to adult systems. With more than 45 states and the District of Columbia giving transfer discretion to juvenile judges, it’s even more imperative to advocate for the best interests of the child.
Whether the client is an adult or juvenile, we can assist in helping to meet the client’s unique needs.