The National Organization of Forensic Social Work is organized exclusively for the primary purpose of education, and for secondary scientific and charitable purposes. The advancement of education in forensic social work encompasses:

1. Organizing and implementing courses of instruction in the area of social work and the law, including training programs, forums, panels, and/or lectures for the purpose of improving and developing the capabilities of the membership
2. The development of training programs for social workers desirous of increased skill and knowledge in the area of social work and the law
3. Examining and certifying practitioners of forensic social work as to their competency in this field
4. As a result of the educational pursuits of the NOFSW, the exchange of ideas and experience in those areas where social work and the law overlap, and the improvement of relationships between social workers and other professionals working in the field
5. The dissemination of information to the public regarding the training, roles, and concerns of forensic social workers, and the potential contributions of the field
6. The development of standards of practice in the relationship of social work and the law
7. Stimulating and encouraging scientific research in the field
8. Publishing journals, newsletters, books or pamphlets, holding property, receiving grants and awards, monitoring research activities conducted under its auspices
9. Making distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.