American Psychology-Law Society

We are Division 41 of the American Psychological Association.[](https://ap-ls.org/about/#we-are-division-41-of-the-american-psychological-association.) AP-LS members and the organization itself work to advance the contributions of psychology to the understanding of law and legal institutions through basic and applied research; promote the education of psychologists in matters of law and the education of legal personnel in matters of psychology, including the appropriate use of psychologists in the legal system; and inform the psychological and legal communities and the general public of current research, educational and service activities in the field of psychology and law. We enhance well-being, justice, and human rights through the science and practice of psychology in legal contexts. Our Mission The American Psychology-Law Society outlines three goals that reflect the many activities, specialties, and contributions made by our members: - Advancing the contributions of psychology to the understanding of law and legal institutions through basic and applied research. - Promoting the education of psychologists in matters of law and the education of legal personnel in matters of psychology. - Informing the psychological and legal communities and the general public of current research, educational and service activities in the field of psychology and law. Core Values The American Psychology-Law Society commits to its vision through a mission based upon the following values: Continual pursuit of excellence Knowledge and application based on methods of science Outstanding service to its members Social justice, diversity, and inclusion Ethical action in all that we do Outstanding service to society Vision Statement The American Psychology-Law Society aspires to excel as a valuable, effective and influential organization advancing the science of psychology-law and the translation of psychology-law knowledge into practice and policy, serving as: A uniting force for psychology-law science and practice. The major catalyst for the stimulation, growth and dissemination of psychology-law science and practice. The primary resource for all psychology-law scholars and practitioners and for members of other disciplines with interests in psychology-law science and practice. The premier innovator in the education, development, and training of psychology-law scientists, practitioners and educators. The leading advocate for psychology-law knowledge and practice informing practitioners, policy makers and the public to use psychology-law knowledge in the pursuit of justice for all citizens. A principal leader and global partner promoting psychology-law knowledge and methods to improve justice in diverse, multicultural and international contexts. An effective champion of the application of psychology-law to promote human rights, dignity, and justice.