What Is a Court-Ordered Mental Health Evaluation?

A court-ordered mental health evaluation is an assessment mandated by the family court to determine an individual's psychological well-being and/or emotional stability. These evaluations may be requested in cases involving custody disputes, visitation rights, divorce proceedings, or concerns about an individual's mental health status.​

 

Who Needs a Mental Health Evaluation?

A judge may require a mental health evaluation for one or both parents, guardians, or any party whose mental health may impact a custody or visitation arrangement. Evaluations may be ordered. We provide Mental Health Evaluations to assess for mental health issues and give recommendations on how to address those issues if they are present. 

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What Does the Evaluation Include?

Our court-ordered mental health evaluations consist of:

• Clinical Interviews: In-depth conversations with the individual to assess psychological well-being and history.

• Standardized Psychological Testing: We may use psychological testing to aid in our assessment process. For example, tests like the Beck Depression Inventory or Conners 4.

• Collateral Information Review: Examination of medical records, legal documents, and relevant third-party information.

• Behavioral Observations: Professional assessment of the individual’s demeanor and responses.

• Comprehensive Report: A detailed document summarizing findings, diagnoses (if applicable), and recommendations for the court.​

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What Our Evaluations Do and Do Not Cover

What We Do:

• Provide a clinical assessment of an individual’s mental health status.

• Identify psychological conditions that may impact mood and behavior.

• Offer professional insights based on evaluation process and data analysis.

• Present findings in a clear, objective report for the court.

What We Do Not Do:

• Determine if someone is lying or fabricating information.
  Decide whether a parent is a “fit” parent or make custody decisions.
  Recommend whether a child should be removed from a home.
  Provide legal opinions or rulings—our role is to offer clinical insights, not legal determinations.

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How Fircrest Behavioral Health Can Help

Our licensed professionals conduct fair, impartial evaluations that adhere to legal and ethical standards. We provide:

• Objective Assessments: Ensuring neutrality and professionalism.

• Court-Ready Reports: Clear, comprehensive findings tailored for family law cases.

• Confidential and Compassionate Approach: Prioritizing dignity and respect throughout the evaluation process.

 

Getting Started

If you or your legal representative need to schedule a court-ordered mental health evaluation, contact Fircrest Behavioral Health today. We will guide you through the process and ensure timely completion of all required assessments.