Guardianship

Guardianship evaluations occur when there are a concerns that an individual lacks the capacity to manage their person and/or estate. For example, the individual may have impaired ability to manage their finances, maintain their medical regimens, and/or take care of their daily needs. In cases of sufficiently impaired capacity, a guardian is appointed by the Probate Court to manage some or all of the person’s affairs. Learn more about guardianship guidelines in the ORC. Other times, a person has a guardian and does not believe they need a guardian. In this case, they can request an independent medical examination (IME) completed by a forensic evaluator who can provide an opinion on whether a guardian is needed. 

Prior to their assessment with Dr. Tarescavage, the evaluee will complete a brief history questionnaire. They will also be encouraged to identify a short list of people who know them well and could provide information on their recent functioning. The in-person component of the evaluation lasts approximately 2.5 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. While the evaluee is completing testing, Dr. Tarescavage will attempt to contact others who know the evaluee well (with their permission). This testing and collateral information provides a comprehensive and objective foundation for a well-informed and impartial clinical interview. After testing and record review 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 and capacity assessment. This is by far the most comprehensive area of inquiry during the interview. Dr. Tarescavage will assess the evaluee’s symptoms, the course of their problems, and impairment in all relevant areas of decision making. Finally, Dr. Tarescavage gives the evaluee preliminary feedback on their assessment results. However, Dr. Tarescavage will never give feedback on his final opinion regarding the evaluee’s capacity to make decisions on their own behalf. After the in-person evaluation is completed, Dr. Tarescavage will conduct a record review and collateral contact process (if applicable) and write a 5 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). 

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