While the field of forensic psychology has emerged as a recognized discipline, psychologists who work within institutional settings frequently feel frustration in dealing with inmates for whom they have had no responsibility or input during the critical pre-trial, trial and sentencing decision-making process. The roles and ways in which psychology functions within the criminal justice system can be classified as Psychology in Law, Psychology of Law, and Psychology and Law. Psychology in Law refers to the accepted function of psychology and psychologists, as expert witnesses or resources, in such areas as competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility. Psychology of Law encompasses such concepts as the behavioral nature of law and society's perceived need for law. Psychology and Law include instances in which psychological concepts and research data have had a direct impact upon the legal system. Psychology should make a concerted effort to develop and provide a database to assist courts in such areas as sentencing and punishment procedures. To implement such efforts, both professional and political interfaces are being identified and developed to permit an orderly and effective application of psychology to the justice process. (NRB)