Abstract
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the role of liaison and diversion services working in the lower courts (also known as Magistrates’ courts) with regard to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and their assessment, in particular, the role of pre-sentence and psychiatric reports and interviews.Design/methodology/approachCurrent practice is described in the lower courts in the context of current legislation and procedures.FindingsWhen writing reports, there is a need for expertise to offer an opinion on future risk, disposal and what needs to be in place to support people with ASDs. No assumptions should be made when reporting on the basis of an ASD diagnosis alone and each case must be assessed on its individual merits while ensuring that individual human rights are protected.Originality/valueThere is currently a sparse literature examining ASD in court settings. This paper seeks to clarify the current practice.
Highlights
Within this paper autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are defined as meeting the clinical criteria that are outlined in item F84 in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10, World HealthOrganization, 2016), and in the DSM-V definition
This paper examines the role of liaison and diversion services in the lower (Magistrates’) courts in England and Wales, and the role of tis pre-sentence and psychiatric reports and interviews, as regards ASD
Liaison and diversion services have developed in England and Wales over the last few decades (James, 2010, Srivastava et al, 2013), with a remit to identify and support people who present with vulnerabilities when they are in the criminal justice system
Summary
Within this paper autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are defined as meeting the clinical criteria that are outlined in item F84 in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10, World HealthOrganization, 2016), and in the DSM-V definition. This paper examines the role of liaison and diversion services in the lower (Magistrates’) courts in England and Wales, and the role of tis pre-sentence and psychiatric reports and interviews, as regards ASD.
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