Michelle Mattison

Michelle Mattison is a Visiting Professor at the University of Chester's School of Society, appointed in March 2021. She previously served as an Associate Professor of Forensic Psychology at the same institution and continues collaborating with its School of Psychology. Her research centers on vulnerability in criminal justice settings, particularly improving evidence collection from vulnerable witnesses such as autistic individuals, sexual assault survivors, and those with learning disabilities.

Michelle’s work emphasizes practical approaches to enhance justice accessibility, including the use of sketching during interviews to aid memory recall, intermediary roles for communication barriers, and policy critiques of existing legal frameworks. Her contributions span forensic psychology, police interrogation techniques, and mental health considerations within legal contexts.

Her articles reflect a focus on systemic improvements: analyzing witness support mechanisms, critique of evidence-based gaps in legal protocols, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Recent studies include autism accommodation strategies in courts, sexual assault referral center operations, and the efficacy of sketch-based memory tools for vulnerable populations.

Michelle actively engages with stakeholders to bridge gaps between research and legal practice, advocating for evidence-informed policies that protect marginalized groups within the criminal justice system.