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.