Forensic Psychological Assessment: Objective Evaluation for Personal Injury Litigation

In personal injury cases, the most significant damages are often the ones that cannot be seen on an X-ray. As a forensic psychologist, we provide objective, data-driven assessments to determine the psychological impact of traumatic events, helping legal teams quantify emotional distress and functional impairment. 

We bridge the gap between clinical symptoms and legal standards, providing defensible evidence for both plaintiff and defense counsel. 

Core Forensic Services

We specialize in high-stakes civil matters where psychological health is a central component of the claim. 

  • Psychological Independent Medical Exams (IME): Comprehensive evaluations to determine the presence, cause, and extent of psychiatric injuries. 
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Screenings: Neuropsychological testing to identify cognitive deficits following motor vehicle accidents or workplace injuries. 
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Verification: Using validated psychometric tools to differentiate genuine trauma from symptom exaggeration.
  •  Loss of Enjoyment of Life (Hedonic Damages): Assessing the impact of an injury on a claimant’s ability to engage in activities that formerly provided meaning and pleasure. 

Our Evaluation Process

A standard personal injury forensic assessment follows a strict, defensible protocol:  

1. Records Review: Exhaustive analysis of medical, employment, and academic history to establish a "pre-morbid" (pre-accident) baseline. 

2. Clinical Interview: A structured, multi-hour interview covering the incident and its psychological aftermath. 

3. Psychometric Testing: Administration of validated instruments (such as the MMPI-3 or PAI) to measure personality, emotional distress, and response consistency. 

4. Validity Testing: Utilizing specific tests to detect "malingering" or the intentional exaggeration of symptoms, ensuring the report's credibility. 

In the courtroom, credibility is the only currency that matters. Our assessments are designed to provide the clinical truth, supported by peer-reviewed science. 

Forensic Evaluations in Marin and Solano County 

Directly serving San Rafael, Fairfield, Vacaville and surrounding areas.