Journal of Forensic Social Work

Journal of Forensic Social Work (JoFSW) (ISSN 1936-9298) contributes to the current forensic knowledge base by publishing peer-reviewed: original empirical research, theoretical and conceptual analyses, and evidence-based practice pieces. Articles in JoFSW analyze issues from a broad spectrum of professions, disciplines, theories, and methodologies, at the individual, family, community, organizational, and societal levels.

JoFSW is the official journal of the National Organization of Forensic Social Work and is published bi-annually by the University of Oklahoma Libraries. 

Peer Review Policy: All papers published in this journal have undergone editorial screening and double-anonymous reviews.

Plagiarism Policy: All papers published in this journal undergo plagiarism screenings at each step of the publication process.  

Join us in New Orleans, LA May 26-29, 2026 at FSWA's Annual Conference!

The Conference will be held in person only in New Orleans, LA. Earn up to 20 social work continuing education credits. Registration will be available soon.

Proposals for Workshops and Posters are being accepted through November 15, 2025.

Preparing the Next Generation for Forensic Practice

The recognition of forensic and criminal legal social work as a distinct and specialized practice is growing globally, as is the impact of this practice area. Despite this, forensic social work education remains underdeveloped and varies significantly across jurisdictions. This conference seeks to advance forensic social work education scholarship by exploring curriculum development, pedagogical innovations, interprofessional training, and global perspectives on preparing social workers for forensic practice.