Criminal defence psychiatry · FAQs for solicitors
Criminal Defence Psychiatry FAQs UK – FAQ for Solicitors
Expert answers for solicitors and barristers on CrimPR Part 19 compliance, Legal Aid (LAA) processes, custody/prison assessments, and fitness to plead reports. Evidence prepared by GMC-registered psychiatrists.
Browse FAQsCriminal Defence Psychiatry FAQs UK – Answers for Solicitors
- Fitness to plead & stand trial
- Fitness for police interview (PACE Code C)
- Diminished Responsibility / Insanity opinions
- Automatism & Sexsomnia assessments (parasomnias)
- Neurodiversity: autism, ADHD, intellectual disability
- Pre-sentencing mitigation reports
- Risk assessment and recommendations
- Addendum and urgent / fast-track reports
- Prison / custody and remote video assessments
All reports are produced by GMC-registered experts in line with CrimPR Part 19 and the Criminal Practice Directions.
Yes. Our experts follow CrimPR Part 19 and CPD guidance, including declaration of duty to the court, statement of truth, instructions received, literature relied upon, and disclosure of uncertainties or limitations.
Yes. We arrange prison or court video-link assessments where permitted, or in-person assessments subject to security clearance and availability. For interviews, we work within PACE Code C requirements and any local operational procedures.
Yes. We routinely support LAA-funded matters and provide itemised quotations and expert CVs for prior authority.
Standard turnaround is 10–15 working days after assessment and receipt of records. Urgent / Fast-Track options (24–72 hours) may be available depending on complexity and diary capacity.
- Letter of instruction and questions for the court
- Charge sheet / case summary (e.g. MG5) and relevant witness materials
- Medical/psychiatric records and previous reports
- Custody or prison location and any access constraints
- LAA prior-authority scope (if applicable)