This presentation will examine the past 10 years of data relating to suicides among incarcerated individuals, with special emphasis on the period since the beginning of the pandemic. We will explore historic and emerging types of claims brought against correctional mental health care staff after a patient suicide, including how statistical evidence is being used in discovery and allowed at trial. Finally, we will discuss the role this information plays in the valuation of a suicide case.

Educational Objectives

• Compare claims involving suicides in the incarcerated population versus in the community
• Discuss how the increase in suicidality is changing claims and allegations
• Examine how statistics and jurors' personal experience can impact the valuation of correctional suicide cases

Level: Intermediate