Welcome to AAPL

The American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law

AAPL (prounounced “apple”) is an organization of psychiatrists dedicated to excellence in practice, teaching, and research in forensic psychiatry. Founded in 1969, AAPL currently has over 2,000 members in North America and around the world.

AAPL is the only organization exclusively dedicated to advancing forensic psychiatry.  We promote scientific and educational activities in forensic psychiatry by facilitating the exchange of ideas and practical clinical experience through publications and regularly scheduled national and regional meetings.

Vision

The American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law is the premier forensic psychiatric organization, dedicated to the highest standards of practice at the interface of psychiatry and the law.

Mission

The American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law is an organization of psychiatrists whose mission is to promote excellence in forensic practice, to provide and support educational activities, and to foster research that enhances knowledge about forensic psychiatry while building a diverse and inclusive body of forensic psychiatrists.

Upcoming Events

Future Events

57th Annual Meeting

October 26 – November 1, 2026

Tampa Marriott Water Street – Tampa, Florida

Save the date!

Future Events

2026 Forensic Review Course

October 23-25, 2026

Tampa Marriott Water Street – Tampa, Florida

Save the date!

Future Events

2026 APA Annual Meeting

May 15-19, 2026

San Francisco, California

Save the date!

News

AAPL Expert Series

First Friday of Every Month

Check the AAPL Digest for details on the the next Expert Series Webinar

Only available to AAPL members in good standing.

AAPL Membership

AAPL is a membership association.  Our strength is in our membership. 

AAPL is the only organization exclusively dedicated to advancing forensic psychiatry. We promote scientific and educational activities in forensic psychiatry by facilitating the exchange of ideas and practical clinical experience through publications and regularly scheduled national and regional meetings.

We encourage you to join us to help us advance the field of forensic psychiatry.    

Join AAPL Now Members Login

AAPL News

Explore a range of resources developed to support professionals working in forensic psychiatry. Whether you’re looking for in-depth research, practical guidance, or timely updates from the field, AAPL’s Practice Resources offers multiple ways to stay engaged.

For scholarly analysis and peer-reviewed studies, the AAPL Journal delivers the latest in forensic psychiatric research and developments.

Looking for applied insights? The Examiner shares practical advice, case reflections, and narratives from practitioners—offering a grounded perspective on real-world challenges. And if you need a quick summary of AAPL news, updates, and events, the AAPL Digest is your go-to for staying connected with the community.

Whether you’re a seasoned forensic psychiatrist or just entering the field, these publications are designed to inform, educate, and keep you current with evolving best practices.

Stay Informed and Up to Date!

New Practice Resource available

Managing Violence in State Hospitals with Forensic Patients

AAPL Journal

Check out the latest AAPL Journal articles

The Examiner

The Examiner is full of practice advise and stories related to forensic psychiatry. See the latest edition here:

AAPL Digest

Want the latest news about AAPL and upcoming events, look no further than the AAPL Digest.