Forensic Evaluations
We Care Support Services provides forensic psychological evaluations for attorneys, courts and agencies in Central and South Florida, from offices in Orlando, West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens and at correctional facilities. Our licensed clinicians assess criminal responsibility, competence to proceed, risk, juvenile matters and mitigation, and write objective reports that address the Florida legal standard in question.
We understand how much rides on these assessments in criminal and civil proceedings. Our goal is a scientifically grounded report that withstands scrutiny and gives the court clear insight. Attorneys can call (877) 302-5628 to discuss a referral.
We understand the critical nature of these assessments in criminal and civil proceedings. Our goal is to provide objective, scientifically grounded reports that withstand legal scrutiny and provide the court with clear insight into an individual’s mental state.
Our Forensic Evaluation Services
We offer a comprehensive range of forensic assessments tailored to the specific legal questions at hand. Our services include:
Criminal Responsibility (Insanity Defense)
These retrospective evaluations determine a defendant’s mental state at the time of an alleged offense. We assess whether a severe mental disease or defect prevented the individual from understanding the nature of their actions or distinguishing right from wrong.
Competency to Stand Trial
A fundamental right in the justice system is the ability to participate in one’s own defense. We evaluate current mental functioning to determine if a defendant has the capacity to understand court proceedings and consult with their attorney.
Risk Assessment & Sex Offender Evaluations
We conduct thorough risk assessments to evaluate the likelihood of future violence or re-offense. These evaluations are often critical for sentencing, parole hearings, or treatment planning.
Juvenile Forensic Evaluations
Cases involving minors require a specialized approach that considers developmental maturity. We provide assessments for juvenile competency, transfer to adult court (waiver evaluations), and disposition planning.
Pre-Disposition & Mitigation Evaluations
We provide the court with a complete picture of a defendant’s life, including mental health history, trauma, and psychosocial factors. These evaluations can assist judges in determining appropriate sentencing or alternative treatment options.
The Forensic Assessment Process
Our approach is rigorous and thorough to ensuring the highest level of accuracy and admissibility:
- Records Review: We meticulously examine police reports, witness statements, medical history, and school records.
- Clinical Interview: We conduct extensive interviews with the evaluee to gather direct clinical data.
- Collateral Interviews: When necessary, we speak with family members or other relevant parties to verify information.
- Psychological Testing: We utilize standardized forensic instruments to assess personality, psychopathology, cognitive functioning, and malingering.
- Expert Reporting: We deliver a comprehensive written report that directly addresses the legal standard in question.
Why Choose We Care Support?
Forensic cases require more than just clinical knowledge; they require an understanding of Florida statutes and legal standards.
- Qualified Experts: Our team consists of licensed psychologists with specific training and experience in forensic settings.
- Unbiased Objectivity: We adhere to strict ethical guidelines, providing neutral and honest opinions based on the data.
- Timely Service: We respect court dockets and legal deadlines, ensuring reports are delivered promptly.
- Convenient Access: With offices in Orlando and Palm Beach County, as well as the ability to visit correctional facilities, we make the process seamless for legal teams.
Contact Our Forensic Team
Whether you are a defense attorney, prosecutor, or court official, We Care Support is your trusted partner for high-quality forensic psychological services.
Contact us today to discuss your specific case needs or to schedule an evaluation.
Who refers forensic evaluations to us
- Defense attorneys and public defenders, for competence to proceed, criminal responsibility and mitigation.
- Prosecutors and the courts, for court-ordered evaluations.
- Juvenile courts and the Department of Juvenile Justice.
- Family law and civil attorneys, for capacity and related questions.
- Immigration attorneys (see immigration evaluations).
We serve cases across Florida, including the Ninth Judicial Circuit (Orange and Osceola counties) and the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit (Palm Beach County).
How long does a forensic evaluation take?
Timing depends on the referral question and the volume of records. Most evaluations involve a records review, one or more interviews (in our office or at a detention facility), psychological testing and report writing. Tell us your court date at referral and we will confirm whether we can meet it before accepting the case.
What our forensic reports include
- The referral question and the legal standard being addressed.
- Sources of information: records reviewed, interviews and collateral contacts.
- Test results, including measures of response style and effort (malingering).
- Clinical findings and diagnoses under DSM-5-TR, where relevant.
- A clear, reasoned opinion on the legal question, and recommendations where appropriate.
Our clinicians can also provide expert witness testimony on ADHD, intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.
Fees
Court-ordered and forensic evaluations begin at $250 per hour. Insurance does not usually cover forensic work. We provide an estimate after reviewing the referral question and records. See rates and insurance.
Forensic evaluation FAQs
Can you evaluate a client who is in custody?
Yes. We can conduct interviews at county jails and detention facilities, subject to facility rules.
Are your opinions independent?
Yes. We follow professional ethics guidelines for forensic psychology. Our opinions are based on the data, regardless of who retains us.
What records should the attorney send?
Charging documents, arrest reports, prior mental health, medical and school records, and any previous evaluations. We will send a records checklist at referral.
Do you evaluate juveniles?
Yes, including juvenile competency, transfer (waiver) and disposition evaluations that consider developmental maturity.
Can the evaluator testify?
Yes. Deposition and court testimony are available and billed separately.
Sources
- American Psychological Association. Specialty guidelines for forensic psychology.
- Florida Legislature. Chapter 916, Florida Statutes: mentally deficient and mentally ill defendants.