California Psychological Assessment & Consultation
Forensic Evaluations for Legal Proceedings
Forensic Psychological Evaluations in San Diego | Legal & Court-Ordered Assessment
Overview
Forensic psychological evaluations provide objective psychological opinions to assist courts, attorneys, and other decision-makers. These evaluations address specific legal questions using evidence-based psychological assessment methods, including clinical interviews, standardized psychological testing, and review of relevant records.
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Dr. Felleman provides independent forensic psychological evaluations in civil, criminal, and administrative contexts. The purpose of these evaluations is to offer impartial psychological analysis that can assist legal professionals in understanding psychological issues relevant to a case.
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Unlike psychotherapy, forensic evaluations are conducted to inform legal or administrative decision-making rather than to provide treatment.
Who Requests Forensic Evaluations
Forensic psychological evaluations may be requested by:
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Attorneys involved in civil litigation
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Courts seeking independent psychological expertise
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Government agencies or administrative bodies
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Organizations requiring independent psychological assessment
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Individuals involved in legal proceedings
Evaluations are designed to address the specific referral question posed by the requesting party.
Types of Referral Questions
Forensic evaluations may address questions related to:
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Psychological functioning relevant to legal claims
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Emotional distress or psychological injury
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Diagnostic clarification in complex cases
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Psychological factors relevant to workplace disputes
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Capacity or functioning relevant to legal proceedings
Each evaluation is tailored to the specific referral question.
Evaluation Process
Record Review
Relevant documentation is reviewed prior to the evaluation. These records may include medical records, psychological records, employment documentation, or legal filings.
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Clinical Interview
A structured clinical interview allows for detailed discussion of psychological history, current functioning, and factors relevant to the referral question.
Psychological Testing
Standardized psychological tests may be administered to assess personality functioning, emotional symptoms, cognitive functioning, or other psychological domains.
Collateral Information
When appropriate, additional information may be obtained from collateral sources.
Written Report
Following the evaluation, a comprehensive written report is prepared. Reports typically summarize the evaluation methods, relevant findings, and professional opinions addressing the referral question.
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Reports are written in clear language suitable for attorneys, courts, and other professionals.
Fees
Fees vary depending on the complexity of the evaluation and the scope of record review required.
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Typical forensic evaluation fees range from approximately:
$2,500 – $6,000
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Factors influencing cost may include:
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volume of records
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complexity of referral question
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psychological testing required
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report preparation time
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A cost estimate is typically provided during the initial consultation once the referral question and expected scope of the evaluation are clarified.
Timeline
The timeline for a forensic evaluation depends on the complexity of the case and the availability of relevant records.
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Typical timelines are:
​3–6 weeks from the evaluation appointment to report completion.
Expedited timelines may be available in some cases for an additional fee.
Schedule a Consultation
Attorneys, organizations, or individuals seeking forensic evaluation services may contact Dr. Felleman to discuss the referral question and determine whether an evaluation may be appropriate.
Schedule a Consultation
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