Which of the following is an example of forensic practice in criminal law?

• A. Risk assessment at sentencing
• B. Divorce mediation
• C. Tax auditing
• D. Property valuation

Answer: (A)

Applying psychological expertise to legal decision-making in criminal cases is what forensic practice is all about, and risk assessment at sentencing is a prime example. A forensic practitioner evaluates factors like the offender’s risk of reoffending, treatment needs, and potential for future harm, using validated tools and structured methods. This information helps the court make informed sentencing decisions, supervision plans, and rehabilitation options, aiming to protect public safety while addressing individual factors. The other options belong to different domains: divorce mediation handles civil family disputes; tax auditing is financial compliance work; property valuation focuses on estimating market value of property—none of which involve applying forensic psychology within criminal law.