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Analysis of data for a sample comprising every second subject (266/533) who underwent forensic psychiatric examination in Sweden during a 12-month period (July 1995-June 1996) showed 50 per cent to have been in contact with psychiatric services during the 6-month period prior to the index offence. The study population was characterised by significantly higher than average proportions of women and of subjects suffering from psychotic disorder and/or serious psychiatric disorder as defined by the mental health act. In the subgroup who did not meet the criteria for special recommendations on medico-legal grounds (i.e., those without a serious psychiatric disorder according to forensic psychiatric examination) and in the youngest age group (< 20 years), the frequency of psychiatric contact prior to the index offence was lower than in the remainder, though the psychiatric consultation rate was nevertheless higher in both subgroups than in the general population. The findings suggest the need of increased alertness within the psychiatric sector, and of improved case management in the patient categories concerned. Further studies, particularly focused on violent and potentially violent offenders and their psychiatric contacts, are essential for the development of adequate programmes and guidelines for the treatment and care of such individuals.