Once the psychiatrist completes their evaluation, they present their findings as an expert witness in court in the form of an expert witness report.  This is often sufficient for the Court and the expert is not required to attend to give expert witness testimony.

However, if required the expert witness Psychiatrist can provide objective testimony on the defendant’s mental condition, explaining in clear terms whether and how the defendant’s mental health issues may impact their fitness to plead. Their testimony is critical in cases where the defense or prosecution questions the defendant’s capacity to stand trial. A psychiatrist’s expert opinion can help judges or juries understand complex psychiatric conditions and how these may affect the defendant’s cognitive abilities, decision-making, or understanding of legal proceedings.