The challenge of fetal alcohol syndrome in the criminal legal system.

People with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) present challenges to those who work in the criminal legal system. Prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause physical, neurological, and psychological impairments. It is vital to understand the individual offender in order to address the underlying reasons for criminal behavior. Individuals with FASD often come from dysfunctional backgrounds, and may have mental illnesses and substance use disorders. A comprehensive medical-legal report, prepared by a professional experienced with FASD, can help judges and lawyers understand how complex the interactions are among brain damage, genetics, and the environment. The person with FASD can be misunderstood in court, victimized in jails, and mismanaged in the transition back to the community, unless those working with the individual are aware of FASD and its implications.