Original Article
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Forensic Issues and Challenges for Mental Health Professionals and Courts
Ian Freckelton SC,
Corresponding Author
Ian Freckelton SC
Crockett Chambers, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
Professorial Fellow, Melbourne Law School, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
Correspondence
Any correspondence should be directed to Ian Freckelton, SC, C/o Barristers’ Clerk Howells, Owen Dixon Chambers West, 525 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, 3000 Vic., Australia (e-mail: [email protected]).
Search for more papers by this authorIan Freckelton SC,
Corresponding Author
Ian Freckelton SC
Crockett Chambers, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
Professorial Fellow, Melbourne Law School, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Australia
Correspondence
Any correspondence should be directed to Ian Freckelton, SC, C/o Barristers’ Clerk Howells, Owen Dixon Chambers West, 525 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, 3000 Vic., Australia (e-mail: [email protected]).
Search for more papers by this authorAbstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as defined in DSM-V, can be relevant in a variety of ways to decision-making by courts and tribunals. This includes the family, disciplinary, discrimination and criminal law contexts. By reviewing decisions made by superior courts in a number of common law jurisdictions, this article identifies a pivotal role for mental health professionals closely familiar with both the disorder and forensic exigencies to educate courts about the inner world of those with ASD. Highlighting areas of criminality that court decisions have dealt with, especially in relation to persons with Asperger's Disorder, as defined by DSM-IV, it calls for further research on the connection between ASD, on the one hand, and conduct, capacities and skills, on the other hand. It urges enhancement of awareness of the forensic repercussions of the disorder so that expert evidence can assist the courts more humanely and informedly to make criminal justice and other decisions.
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