Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is estimated to affect 1 in 100 people.

ASD is characterised by impairments in:

  • Reciprocal Social Interaction
  • Social Communication
  • Social imagination and Social Understanding
  • and Stereotyped behaviour, restricted interests or marked resistance to context changes are a common picture.
  • Unusual sensitivity to sensory stimuli is
  • common.
  • Co-morbidity and dual diagnosis are often
  • seen in people with autism.

Diagnostic Guidelines

Gold standard diagnostic practice for Autism Spectrum Disorder


Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network

http://www.sign.ac.uk/pdf/sign98.pdf


National Institute for Health & Care Excellence

http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/13572/56428/56428.pdf

http://www.nice.org.uk/nicemedia/live/13774/59685/59685.pdf


Please contact on:

01561 320885

or complete the contact form

Forensic Issues and ASD

Autism Consultant John Forrester has extensive experience working with people with ASD in the criminal justice system. He continues to work in conjunction with forensic departments, the police, prisons, and the Courts. Specialist report is provided upon request.

People with ASD are not necessarily more likely to commit criminal offences. However, research suggests that individuals with ASD are more likely to come into contact with the criminal justice system, either as perpetrators or as victims of crime. Most often, the differences associated with ASD can assist in understanding the offending behaviour, which is often an example of actus reus rather than mens rea. Evidence also suggests that co-morbid mental health problems are often relevant in offending behaviour in individual with autism.

Referral for assessment or other services

Referral-instructions for assessment, consultancy or training can be made directly by Court services, solicitors, and health or local authority professionals. For further details and costs please contact directly through the website contacts or by email info@autismconsultantsscotland.co.uk

John Forrester is a vetted member of the UK register of Expert Witnesses. CV and further details can be found on the register at:

http://www.jspubs.com/

Useful Journal and Other Articles

Asperger's in Forensic Settings

Asperger's Disorder and Criminal Behaviour

Who we work with


  • Individuals
  • NHS & local authorities
  • Criminal Justice Departments
  • Employers
  • Voluntary sector
  • Families & carers
autism consultant scotland