Forensic Minds Consulting FAQ's

Generally, attorneys contact our office directly to initiate a forensic evaluation. Attorneys may have specific referral questions they would like addressed in an evaluation to assist with a client's legal defense or they may wish to consult with our experts to determine the best course. In some cases, the Court may order a defendant to participate in a forensic evaluation to address specific questions. An individual involved in a criminal matter may also inquire directly about the  forensic evaluation process, and while we are glad to answer any questions, the most direct route is to first consult with your attorney about the best approach to your case.  

 A forensic evaluation can help address a number of psycholegal questions such as “Is my  client capable of proceeding to trial?” or “Would the insanity defense (or diminished capacity) qualify in this case?” or “What is my client’s risk to public safety if released and treated in the community?” or “Does my client have PTSD and how has that impacted his/her legal situation?” 

If a defendant has a history of emotional distress, mental disorder, mental health treatment, special education, cognitive impairment, etc., an evaluation may assist in addressing mitigating factors. An evaluation may demonstrate how a disorder and/or degree of impairment impacts the defendant’s decision-making, functional capacities, involvement in a crime, etc. 

To determine if a forensic evaluation may be necessary or helpful in a case, please contact us to discuss the case to determine how we may be able assist. 

Forensic evaluations are conducted with the timeframe of the case in mind, often dictated by the Court or the legal parties. For defendants in custody, evaluations take place at the jail or correctional center. We also have two convenient office locations to conduct evaluations of defendants living in the community. We can also schedule evaluations at an attorney's office location if accommodations are available. Please note forensic evaluations may take several appointments to complete.

Forensic evaluations are either subject to private pay, similar to traditional legal expenses, or in the case of indigent clients, funding may be guaranteed by Indigent Defense Services in North Carolina, the Federal Government, etc. Forensic services are not billable to insurance under any circumstances. If a defendant is paying privately for a forensic evaluation, they must deposit funds in their attorney's Trust Account for distribution. All services must be paid in full before a report, if applicable, is released.