It is generally accepted that the majority of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) who offend should not be institutionalized or incarcerated, partly because of their vulnerability but also because of their increased risk of victimization within the system and correctional facilities. In relation to assessment, treatment, and rehabilitative services, studies have highlighted the difficulties of service provision and planning for this client group. In addition, although studies to date have evaluated a range of effective treatments and therapeutic approaches for offenders with ID, these individuals are still neither readily accepted in mainstream offender services nor in services for those with ID. It appears likely that the precise prevalence and incidence of individuals with intellectual disabilities who become involved with the criminal justice system is not known and estimates vary with the laws, definitions, and social policies available in the many jurisdictions studied. Individuals with ID who offend enter the criminal justice system much as other people, although their treatment within the system depends on the extent to which their disability is recognized. Future research must expand from prevalence studies and focus on understanding the nature and circumstances around when and how an individual with ID offends, and identifies the variability in service response by the legal system compared to the general population. This article highlights the salient issues including prevalence of offending, characteristics of offenders, vulnerabilities within the legal system, assessment, and a brief overview of intervention and treatment approaches. References