Bringing Psychology to the Courtroom and Vice Versa: Conceptualization and Design of a Course in Trial Consulting

Abstract

In the present paper, we describe an example trial consulting course at the graduate level of training in psychology. Drawing on existing competency training, teaching of psychology, and trial consulting literatures, we propose: a) a base course model suitable for adaptation to other graduate programs, b) course learner objectives with associated example teaching techniques, c) guiding themes to frame seminar discussions, and d) a thematic course schedule. Sample student-driven publications and inter-disciplinary student contact show promise for the utility of such a graduate course. Limitations and future directions for education in psychological trial consulting are also discussed.