Forensic Psychological Assessment and Independent Report Review
Specialist Expertise for Courts, Legal Professionals and Individuals Involved
Wichard Assessment & Development conducts independent forensic psychological assessments and evaluates existing psychological and behavioral reports. An assignment may concern a Pro Justitia assessment, a second opinion or counter-expertise, an assessment in first instance or on appeal, or a methodological and substantive review of previously conducted research.
The exact form of the assignment is determined by the questions posed, the legal framework, the available information, and the requirements applicable to independent expert assessments.
Pro Justitia Assessment
Psychological assessment conducted in support of judicial decision-making, based on a clearly formulated mandate and within the applicable legal and professional framework. Depending on the specific questions, the assessment may focus on psychological functioning, personality, development, behavioral dynamics, risks, and relevant protective factors.
Independent Report and File Review
Existing reports from institutions, researchers, or other experts can be assessed both methodologically and substantively. This includes examining whether the questions have been carefully answered, whether the information used and research methods are appropriate, and whether the conclusions logically follow from the findings.
Such a review is not automatic proof that a previous investigation is incorrect. The outcome may confirm the concerns expressed, put them into perspective, or fail to support them.
Second Opinion and Counter-Expertise
A second opinion or counter-expertise may be appropriate when there is a need for a new, independent assessment of a person, a previous report, or the conclusions drawn in that report. This can take place in first instance or on appeal and may be commissioned by a judicial body, attorney, or other authorized client.
A counter-expertise always begins with the question of whether new research is necessary and feasible, or whether a file and report review is more appropriate.
Support for Attorneys
Attorneys can contact Wichard Assessment & Development for behavioral-scientific interpretation of reports and case files. The support may include identifying ambiguities or limitations, formulating additional expert questions, and advising on the potential added value of further assessment, a second opinion, or counter-expertise.
What is examined in a report assessment?
- Is the research question clearly, fully, and unbiasedly formulated?
- Have sufficient relevant information sources been consulted?
- Are the research methods and instruments used appropriate?
- Has sufficient consideration been given to context, culture, language, and possible alternative explanations?
- Are observations, facts, interpretations, and conclusions clearly distinguished from one another?
- Do the conclusions follow logically and transparently from the research findings?
- Are limitations, uncertainties, and missing information sufficiently identified?
- Are the recommendations proportionate and appropriate to the findings?
For who?
Judiciary and judicial authorities
Independent assessment and expert answers to psychological or behavioral questions.
Organizations and institutions
Independent quality assessment of research, decision-making, and existing reports.
Attorneys
Second opinions, counter-expertise, file analysis, and support in formulating expert questions.
Stakeholders and private individuals
A request for an independent assessment can be discussed. First, it is determined who can formally act as the client, which documents may be made available, and what form of investigation is responsible and feasible.
Independence and Professional Boundaries
Wichard Assessment & Development operates independently and impartially. The client defines the research question, but not the outcome. Every request is assessed in advance for expertise, independence, potential conflicts of interest, availability of relevant information, and formal feasibility.
An assessment of a report does not constitute legal advice and is not intended to confirm or refute a previous report in advance. Legal decisions remain the responsibility of the competent judicial or administrative authority.
Method of Working
- Initial consultation
Discussion of the reason for the request, the procedure, the questions to be addressed, and the desired form of expertise. - Assessment of the assignment
Verification of independence, authority, file availability, privacy, timelines, and any potential conflicts of interest. - Examination or report review
Study of the documents and, when this is part of the assignment, interviews, psychological assessment, and collection of additional information. - Reporting and explanation
A clear and transparent report, with written or oral answers to any additional questions.