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Our Services

Civil Evaluations

Civil evaluations usually involve disputes between individuals or organizations. These types of cases may arise when trying to pinpoint areas of liability, such as when filing a workers' compensation claim or when a claim of psychological injury has been made. Psychological evaluations may be used in civil court to assess the psychological impact of accidents, injuries, or various traumatic events including sexual abuse. 

Criminal Evaluations

Criminal evaluations typically involve the assessment of individuals who have allegedly committed an offense in violation of the law. Defendants may be in custody or in the community awaiting adjudication of their legal case. Psychological evaluations may be used in criminal proceedings to ensure the defendant understands their charges and the legal system, determine their mental state at the time of the offense, assess their risk for future violent behavior, and aid in sentencing decisions. 

Family Evaluations

Family evaluations involve the assessment of a particular family dynamic in response to a specific legal question. Psychological evaluations may be used in family court to describe the nature and quality of relationships between family members, determine parenting strengths and deficits, assess the impact of traumatic events on children, and inform custody or visitation decisions. These assessments are offered with the best interests of the child(ren) in mind. 

Non Court-Ordered Evaluations

Psychological evaluations do not have to be court-ordered. Assessments may be requested to aid in treatment planning, clarify diagnosis, request accommodations at school or work, shed light on academic performance, provide clearance for medical procedures, and gain a better understanding of one's mental health. 

Court-Mandated Treatment

In some cases, treatment may be ordered by a judge to rehabilitate individuals with certain behaviors or presentations. This may include treatment for individuals involved in domestic violence, substance abuse, those in need of competency restoration, and individuals who have engaged in sexually problematic behaviors. Treatment may involve weekly or monthly therapy sessions offered in both individual and group formats. Treatment providers are expected to provide regular progress reports to the court and/or probation or parole officers. 

Expert Witness Testimony

Psychologists may be called to testify as an expert on a variety of clinical issues consistent with their training and experience. In these scenarios, experts educate the trier-of-fact (either the jury or judge) on issues of mental health. They may be called to testify about a specific case in which they evaluated or treated an individual, or to provide testimony about a specific area of expertise. 

Public Speaking, Consultation & Supervision

Psychologists may be asked to speak at public events such as college seminars, continuing education lectures, or employee trainings related to mental health. They may also be utilized for consultation by other professionals in the areas of jury selection, witness prep, trial strategy, and communications training. Supervision may be requested to improve the effectiveness of assessment and intervention techniques, or to assist in the completion of hours required for permit holders and license seekers. 

 

©2024 by Forensic Psychology Services, LLC.

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