Forensic risk assessments require the evaluator to adhere to the highest possible standards in high-stakes courtroom settings, such as ones where the death penalty or life without parole is sought by prosecutors. These assessments are frequently relied upon in contentious trials dealing with issues of life and liberty. Erroneous decisions carry grave consequences: a failure to identify high-risk individuals can jeopardize public safety, while erroneously labeling someone as high-risk can lead to unjustified restrictions of liberty and significant public stigma. To withstand the rigors of high-stakes courtroom scrutiny, forensic psychologists must ground their opinions in robust methodology, transparent communication, and with an awareness of inherent biases.