Forensic Services
Objective Analysis at the Intersection of Psychology and the Law
In the legal arena, the “truth” is often obscured by complexity, trauma, and conflicting narratives. As a forensic psychologist, my role is not to be an advocate for a patient, but to be an objective seeker of facts for the court.
I apply a rigorous, systems-based approach to every evaluation, utilizing scientifically validated psychometric testing, exhaustive record reviews, and collateral interviews to provide the court with the clarity it needs to make informed decisions.
Areas of Expertise
1. Expert Witness and Litigation Consultation
In complex civil litigation, the most effective use of a forensic psychologist often happens before a single word is spoken in court. I provide specialized consultation to legal teams to help them navigate the psychological nuances of their cases.
- Work Product Review: I conduct a critical, peer-review style analysis of opposing experts’ psychological reports. I identify methodological flaws, biases, or misinterpretations of psychometric data that may undermine the report’s credibility.
- Deposition & Trial Prep: I assist attorneys in developing evidence-based direct and cross-examination questions. By translating complex psychological theory into “plain English,” I help legal teams challenge improper testimony or highlight the strengths of our findings.
- Case Strategy: Not every case requires a full evaluation. I provide “behind-the-scenes” consultation to help attorneys determine if a psychological claim is viable based on the existing record, potentially saving time and resources before heading to trial.
- Rebuttal: I can serve as a rebuttal expert, providing testimony that critiques the scientific validity and professional standards of an evaluation conducted by another professional.
Note on Privilege: As a consulting expert, my preliminary findings and strategy discussions are generally protected by attorney-client privilege, providing a “safe harbor” for legal teams to explore the psychological strengths and weaknesses of their case.
2. Civil Forensic Evaluations
Civil litigation often hinges on both visible (i.e., physical) and invisible (i.e., psychological) injuries. I provide objective data to help resolve disputes involving psychological harm or functional capacity.
- Personal Injury & Emotional Distress: Assessing the psychological impact of a specific event (accidents, workplace harassment, or trauma) and determining the presence of any pre-existing conditions.
- Fitness for Duty: Evaluating whether an individual’s mental health status allows them to safely and effectively perform the essential functions of their job.
3. Family Law
In family court, the primary focus is on the best interest of the child. These evaluations require a nuanced understanding of family systems and developmental psychology.
- Independent Psychological Evaluations: A comprehensive look at an individual in question to provide recommendations on legal and physical custody arrangements.
- Substance Use & Mental Health Triage: Targeted evaluations (Brief Focused Assessments) to answer specific questions regarding a parent’s stability or treatment compliance.
4. Criminal Forensic Evaluations
In criminal proceedings, the stakes are at their highest. I provide comprehensive assessments to address psycho-legal questions regarding a defendant’s mental state and functional capacities.
- Competency to Stand Trial: Assessing a defendant’s current ability to understand legal proceedings and assist in their own defense.
- Mitigation & Sentencing: Providing a “deep dive” into an individual’s psychological history, trauma, and cognitive functioning to assist the court in determining appropriate sentencing or treatment-oriented outcomes.
The Process: What to Expect
Unlike clinical therapy, a forensic evaluation is an objective, time-limited process.
- Consultation: We begin with a referral from an attorney or a court order to define the specific legal question.
- Information Gathering: This includes several hours of clinical interviewing, the administration of standardized psychological tests, and a thorough review of records.
- Analysis & Reporting: I synthesize the data into a detailed, objective report that directly addresses the legal referral question.
- Expert Testimony: If required, I provide clear, evidence-based testimony to explain my findings and the psychological principles involved to the judge or jury.