When a defendant’s ability to participate in the legal process is questioned, courts rely on a Competency To Stand Trial evaluation from the Institute of Forensic Psychology (IFP). This assessment determines whether an individual has the capacity to understand the charges, follow courtroom proceedings, and assist counsel in their defense.
Our Approach
IFP conducts Competency To Stand Trial evaluations using:
- Clinical interviews to assess comprehension, reasoning, and decision-making skills.
- Review of records, including legal, medical, and psychological history.
- Standardized psychological testing when appropriate to evaluate attention, memory, and understanding.
- Analysis directly tied to statutory criteria for competency.
What We Address
- Ability to understand charges and potential consequences.
- Awareness of courtroom roles and legal procedures.
- Capacity to assist counsel in preparing a defense.
- Identification of psychological or cognitive conditions that may impair participation.
Reporting
IFP provides structured, objective reports that outline psychological findings and their relevance to the legal standards for competency. Reports are designed to be clear, impartial, and legally useful, giving the court a reliable basis for decision-making.
Why Choose IFP
IFP delivers evaluations that are objective, evidence-based, and trusted in court. Our multi-credentialed team employs a thorough and impartial process to ensure that findings are clear, relevant, and legally useful. We prioritize timeliness without sacrificing quality, and every evaluation is conducted with professional respect and cultural competence.
We look forward to working with you and supporting the critical decisions entrusted to the courts.
Supporting Criminal Courts Across Texas
IFP offers Competency To Stand Trial Evaluations that meet the highest forensic standards. Our reports are impartial, evidence-based, and written with legal clarity, giving courts and attorneys the information they need for high-stakes criminal cases.
To request an evaluation, please contact IFP directly, and a member of our team will follow up with you shortly.