Forensic Assessment

When psychological understanding matters in a legal case.

I provide forensic psychological evaluations for attorneys and their clients when psychological factors are relevant to a legal proceeding. My approach combines careful clinical assessment with attention to the specific questions presented by the legal case.

A primary area of my forensic practice is mitigation of sentance evaluations. These evaluations can help provide a fuller understanding of an individual's psychological functioning, developmental and family history, trauma, substance use, relationships, and other circumstances that may be relevant to understanding the person and the behavior at issue.

An evaluation typically includes an extensive clinical interview, review of relevant records, and, when appropriate, psychological testing and interviews with collateral sources. I integrate this information into a written report designed to communicate the findings clearly and meaningfully to attorneys and the court.

My role as a forensic evaluator is different from that of a treating psychologist. The purpose is not to provide psychotherapy or advocate for a particular outcome, but to conduct an independent psychological evaluation and offer opinions that are supported by the available information.

Attorney Consultation

Attorneys are welcome to contact me to discuss a case before making a referral. An initial conversation can help determine whether a psychological evaluation would be useful, what questions the evaluation might address, and the anticipated scope of the work.