Forensic Services

Neuropsychology is often used in legal proceedings, both civil and criminal. In both cases, a comprehensive evaluation is conducted to determine the relationship between brain injury and an individual’s behavioral and/or cognitive status. The neuropsychologists at The Neuropsychological Institute of South Florida have extensive experience in both civil and criminal matters.

Civil

Following an injury, the injured individual may seek compensation through the civil legal system. In these cases, the plaintiff must demonstrate damages, as well as other considerations. The neuropsychologist plays a critical role in situations in which the injury involves the brain. A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation utilizes a series of assessment instruments that are generally accepted by the medical and legal community in determining the effect that the injury had on behavior and/or cognition.

Criminal

In criminal cases, neuropsychological evaluations play a role in multiple domains. Neurological conditions, such as a head injury, sustained prior to the alleged criminal act, as well as conditions arising following the alleged criminal act, but before sentencing, may raise serious questions regarding a defendant’s competence to stand trial.

In some instances, certain neuropsychological conditions may have significant impact upon sentencing guidelines, as well as suitability for probation.