Forensic psychiatric assessment in European Union member states.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a structured description and cross-boundary comparison of legal frameworks and training standards relevant for forensic psychiatric assessment in European Union member states before the extension in May 2004.

METHOD

Information on legislation and practice concerning the assessment of mentally disordered offenders was gathered by means of a detailed, structured questionnaire which was filled in by national experts.

RESULTS

Legal frameworks for the assessment and reassessment of mentally disordered offenders and professional training standards in forensic psychiatry vary markedly across EU member states.

CONCLUSION

Currently a cross-boundary harmonization of legal concepts appears hard to achieve. At least a formal construction and implementation of specialist training standards in forensic psychiatry would appear desirable.