Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a forensic evaluation?
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A forensic evaluation is a clinical assessment done for a legal purpose. A trained clinician meets with a person, listens to their history, and documents physical or psychological findings that are consistent with what they have experienced. The findings are written up in an affidavit or report that attorneys can submit as evidence.
Do your services cost anything?
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No. All evaluations, testimony, case management, and consultations for our clients are free.
Do we need interpretation?
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How long does an evaluation take?
No. We provide our own interpretation services.
Can I request an evaluation for myself or a family member?
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We accept referrals from legal representatives, because our reports are used as legal evidence. If you do not have a lawyer, we can share a list of organizations that may be able to help. [Link to legal resources]
Where do you conduct evaluations?
The evaluation itself usually takes [X–X hours]. Most reports are completed within [X weeks] of referral. Please refer as early as possible.
We offer in-person evaluations for clients in the community and inside detention centers and prisons in the Chicagoland area. For clients outside the area, we offer tele-health (remote) evaluations.
What languages do you work in?
Who conducts the evaluations?
We work with professional interpreters for any language our clients need.
Every evaluation is led by a trained clinician and supervised by an experienced forensic evaluator. Clinical learners participate as part of a supervised learning cohort.
Is what clients share kept confidential?
I have no forensic experience. Can I still volunteer?
Do you offer continuing education credits?
Will you accept every case referred to you?
Do you work with other organizations?
We take privacy seriously. Information is shared only with the client's legal team and used only for their case, with the client's consent.Every evaluation is led by a trained clinician and supervised by an experienced forensic evaluator. Clinical learners participate as part of a supervised learning cohort.
Yes. We provide training and mentorship, and every case is completed with direct clinical supervision.
Yes. Continuing education (CE) credits are available for training at an additional cost. Please request CE credits at least 2–3 months in advance.
We review each referral and accept cases on a case-by-case basis, depending on clinician availability, the type of evaluation needed, timing, and location.
Yes. We partner with Physicians for Human Rights and the Medical Justice Alliance, and we work closely with legal organizations across the Chicagoland area.