NCJ Number
232096
Date Published
November 2009
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This report summarizes the methodology and findings of an evaluation of the Netherlands' National Framework Forensic Diagnostics for Juveniles, which was established in order to institute a uniform method for determining the need for a diagnostics exam of a juvenile by a behavioral expert.
Abstract
The evaluation determined that thus far the National Framework Forensic Diagnostics for Juveniles has not led to a uniform method for determining the need for forensic diagnostics for juveniles. Before the implementation of the National Framework, many diagnostic reports for juveniles were not available in time for the hearing. After the implementation of the National Framework, however, the issue with processing times continues. Public prosecutors and judges across jurisdictions still complain about the fact that hearings are often deferred because the reports are not available in time for a scheduled hearing. In addition, in the civil domain users of forensic diagnostics have not seen any major improvement in terms of processing times after implementation of the National Framework. The evaluation found that the formal quality of the criminal reports has improved under the National Framework and is, on average, currently regarded as good by users. This improvement can be partly attributed to the use of format and standards under the National Framework and the verifying role of the Netherlands Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology. Still, a number of issues need attention. Users indicate that some of the reports are not clear on the relationship between the offense committed and the presence of a disorder; and some reports still contain insufficiently substantiated diagnoses and settlement recommendations. Users also say that a recommendation for treatment is often made without the examiner having established whether the recommended treatment is available.