Forensic and Court Related Services

Psychological evaluations are often requested by defense attorneys or the courts themselves and are conducted to determine general psychological functioning, treatment needs, and identify mental health factors that may have impacted the legal case in some manner. The evaluation can include IQ testing, personality testing, and evaluation of symptoms of psychopathology. May be virtual or in person depending on testing needed.

Psychosexual evaluations are usually recommended for individuals charged with crimes of a sexual nature or for those requesting early release from the Sex Offender Registry. The evaluation includes general psychological functioning and psychosexual development to identify strengths, needs, and risks. Past treatment or current treatment needs will be addressed. These evaluations are generally conducted virtually.

Competency evaluations can be conducted to determine a person's capacity to proceed to trial with intact court related fund of knowledge as well as their ability to adequately assist their defense team in their own best interest. Evaluations also address restoration issues.

Criminal Responsibility addresses an individual's ability to understand right from wrong, and capacity to control one's own behavior. Can include issues such as Guilty But Mentally Ill and Diminished Capacity. These evaluations are requested by your attorney or the courts.

Making the decision to take guardianship of an aging or disabled family member is a complex and often emotional decision. Evaluating the individual both assists with the guardianship case by determining level of assistance needed, and can also help the individual recognize and accept their limitations. Mobile assessment available when living conditions are relevant.

Marriage does not always work out, and the conflict can have a negative impact on the children involved. Parental Fitness evaluations are not Custody Evaluations. Rather, they seek to establish whether the parent has any needs or impediments to effective parenting. These evaluations are generally requested by the courts or the Guardian Ad Litem in the case.

Most evaluations do not require or involve court testimony. However, Dr. Hafele has extensive experience providing expert witness testimony to the court and has testified at both the state and federal level.