Overview

Mitigation Evaluations provide a comprehensive view of a person’s background, including developmental history, mental health, trauma, medical issues, neurocognitive functioning, and social environment. They are intended to help the court understand the broader context in which an offense occurred. Information from many sources is integrated into a coherent, clinically grounded narrative.

Purpose

These evaluations are commonly requested in serious or complex cases where sentencing decisions require a detailed understanding of the individual. They help ensure that significant aspects of a person’s life story are not overlooked when the court weighs culpability, risk, and rehabilitation potential. Findings may also shape recommendations for treatment and long-term support.

Our Approach

At Segel Psychological Center, mitigation work is approached with care, thoroughness, and respect for both the individual and the legal process. Clinicians carefully review records, conduct interviews, gather collateral information, and use testing when indicated. Reports emphasize relevance to the court’s decision-making while acknowledging the complexity of each person’s life circumstances.