Introduction: Why Understanding the Law Matters

State and federal laws have a significant impact on the practice of medicine. Psychiatry is one of the most heavily regulated of all medical specialties. The law provides the boundaries in which clinical care operates, for example, by limiting the circumstances within which psychiatrists may deprive patients of their civil liberties. Appreciating these boundaries is particularly important when working with individuals whose rights may already be curtailed (e.g., forensic settings). Understanding how psychiatry and the law interface provides students and trainees with a foundation for building their skills and attitudes through training and beyond. This text can guide or supplement education on the legal regulation of psychiatry, the use of psychiatry to answer legal questions, and the treatment of individuals with criminal justice involvement. It is designed to introduce learners to core concepts at the intersection of psychiatry and the law, with each chapter focusing on a topic relevant to clinical practice.