Program description
The University of Florida Division of Forensic Psychiatry, established in 1988, offers a one-year, full-time fellowship training program designed to train psychiatrists in psychiatry and the law. This balanced academic and clinical program provides clinical, research, and teaching opportunities. The faculty includes two board certified forensic psychiatrists, a professor of law, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, a forensic psychologist, and various clinical faculty who attend and co-supervise didactic seminars covering their areas of expertise.

Fellows perform forensic evaluations including but not limited to competency, criminal responsibility, dangerousness, civil commitment, guardianship, disability, personal injury, and child issues. Forensic faculty closely supervise fellows on their evaluations.

Weekly seminars include ACGME-recommended and other pertinent forensic psychiatry topics, case presentations, and landmark case review. Multiple forensic faculty are present. Fellows also study landmark cases with a UF Professor of Law and attend a Psychiatry and the Law or related course at the UF Law School. There are opportunities for teaching forensic psychiatry to medical and law students and psychiatry residents. Support staff and faculty are available to promote and help carry out research interests. Fellows are expected to produce a scholarly product suitable for submission for publication by the end of their fellowship year.

Gainesville offers a great climate with numerous cultural and sporting events and nearby Atlantic Ocean beaches. All fellows are provided travel support to attend the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law. We strive to ensure our program offers a comprehensive, enjoyable, and rewarding experience.