CIVIL COMPETENCY

The purpose of civil competency evaluations is to determine if an individual has the capacity to participate in civil litigation. The issue of competency can be raised at any point in the civil litigation process. Learn more about Civil Competencies via the ORC Code. 

Prior to their competency assessment with Dr. Tarescavage, the evaluee will complete a brief history questionnaire. The in-person component of the evaluation lasts approximately 2.0 hours and begins with an overview of the purpose of the evaluation as well as a review of the limitations on confidentiality. After introductions, the evaluee typically completes one-hour of psychological testing. This testing generally includes the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-3 (MMPI-3), a widely-used and well-validated psychological test.  This testing provides a comprehensive and objective foundation for a well-informed and impartial clinical interview. After testing is completed, Dr. Tarescavage conducts the clinical interview. The first part of the interview involves the collection of background information (family, educational, medical, employment, military, legal, and substance use). The second part of the interview is the diagnostic assessment. Dr. Tarescavage will assess the evaluee’s symptoms, the course of their problems, and impairment. Next, Dr. Tarescavage conducts the competency assessment. Finally, Dr. Tarescavage gives the evaluee preliminary feedback on their assessment results. However, Dr. Tarescavage will never give feedback on his opinion regarding the evaluee competency to participate in civil litigation. After the in-person evaluation is completed, Dr. Tarescavage will conduct a record review and collateral contact process (if applicable) and write a 6 to 8 page report detailing his findings and opinions. The referral source will receive the report within three business days of the evaluation (assuming additional records do not need to be requested). If the evaluee is interested in obtaining a copy of the evaluation, they will need to contact the referral source. 

These evaluations are civil forensic assessments, which include police officer psychological screening, civil competency assessment, fitness for duty, guardianship evaluations, and threat assessments.