Unlocking the Intersection of Psychology and the Law: The Essence of Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychology brings together the science of human behavior and the complexities of the legal system. It applies psychological principles and methods to help courts, attorneys, and juries better understand the mental and emotional factors that shape behavior and decision-making.
A skilled forensic psychologist integrates clinical expertise with scientific research to address important legal questions objectively and precisely. Through comprehensive interviews, careful review of collateral information, and the use of validated psychological testing, they work to form well-supported opinions about an individual’s functioning and its relevance to legal issues.
At its core, forensic psychology serves as a bridge between two worlds. It helps the legal system make informed, evidence-based decisions while bringing a deeper understanding of the human mind into the pursuit of justice
How Dr. Ambeau Can Make a Difference in Your Case
When presenting psychologically based legal questions in the courtroom, Dr. Kathryn Ambeau is committed to accuracy, clarity, and objectivity. Her goal as an expert witness is to provide decision-makers with well-supported, reliable information grounded in sound psychological science rather than speculation.
With more than 15 years of experience in forensic practice, Dr. Ambeau brings depth, professionalism, and a steady presence to her work. Her testimony is known for being clear, thoughtful, and accessible, which has earned her the respect of judges, attorneys, and juries. Drawing from her background in university teaching, she combines strong communication skills with the confidence and poise essential to effective expert testimony.
Drawing on years of training and experience, Dr. Ambeau skillfully translates complex psychological concepts into language that is clear and understandable. Her ability to make sophisticated ideas accessible allows her testimony to be both informative and meaningful to the court.
Dr. Ambeau approaches each case with careful preparation and attention to detail. She conducts thorough record reviews, applies established psychological methods, and develops opinions that are thoughtful, well-reasoned, and objective.
Attorneys who retain Dr. Ambeau can expect professionalism, responsiveness, and a commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based opinions. Her focus is always on helping the court understand the relevant psychological factors and how they relate to the legal questions at hand.
Criminal Law Issues
Affirmative Defense (Not Guilty by Reason of Insanity [NGRI]/Insanity Defense)
Depending on the state, a plea of “not guilty by reason of insanity” may be used. The insanity defense is an affirmative defense by excuse in a criminal case, arguing that the defendant is not responsible for their actions due to a serious mental health condition that precluded them from appreciating the nature and quality of the wrongfulness of their actions at the time of the alleged crime.
Waiver of Miranda Rights/Suggestibility
An assessment can determine if an individual knowingly and intelligently waived their Miranda Rights, and whether they did so voluntarily. Suggestibility refers to vulnerable populations who may make false statements during interrogations.
Mitigating/Aggravating Circumstances for Sentencing
Mitigating factors refer to developmental, social, economic, intellectual, and educational deficits that predispose an individual to criminality; oftentimes the findings are offered to the court as a way to reduce the severity of the sentence. Aggravating factors refer to information about the individual or nature of the crime that may make the crime worse in comparison to others.
Trial Competency
Assessment of a defendant’s understanding of their charges and the seriousness of the charges, and consequences of charges; understanding of the courtroom dynamics and trial process; and whether the defendant has the ability to assist in their own defense and make important decisions about their case.
Civil Law Issues
Employment Discrimination
On-the-job discrimination involves differential, unwanted, or inappropriate treatment based on race, gender, sexuality, religion (or lack of), or age. Diagnostic assessments can aid in determining the impact of the alleged discrimination.
Fitness for Duty Evaluation
The fitness for duty evaluation is performed when a circumstance occurs that may impair an employee, law enforcement officer, or other high risk professional from successfully performing essential job functions. of persons seeking to obtain medical (e.g., questions pertaining to workplace safety, return to work, reasonable accommodation, security clearance, promotional suitability, specialty assignment).
Independent Medical [Psychological] Evaluation
Often referred to as an independent medical evaluation, these psychological evaluations are assessments to determine an individual’s current psychological status, possible causes of their current status, prognosis, and treatments needed.
Personal Injury/Psychological Injuries and Emotional Distress
In personal injury (torts) cases, an individual may be compensated for emotional/psychological damages resulting from an injury. A forensic psychological evaluation will determine what, if any, psychological problems an individual has, and what, if anything, caused their psychological problems (particularly related to the claimant’s reported injury).