Mitigation, Risk & Recidivism Evaluations

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Mitigation, Risk & Recidivism Evaluations *

Forensic clarity. Human resilience.


Informed decisions require an evidence-based understanding of risk, rehabilitative potential, and the drivers of harmful behavior. I provide clear, court-ready guidance on mitigation and future danger.

When These Evaluations Help

Mitigation and risk evaluations are most often requested:

  • Before sentencing in felony matters

  • In capital and non-capital cases

  • During dangerousness hearings

  • When planning release, supervision, or placement

  • When behavioral risk is contested or unclear

  • As part of post-conviction strategy

May also assist:

  • Treatment-vs-incarceration decisions

  • Specialty court referrals

  • Civil commitment considerations

What I Evaluate

Risk is formulated using multiple evidence streams:

  • Historical risk factors and supervision outcomes

  • Mental health, trauma, and substance use

  • Cognitive and neuropsychological functioning

  • Personality structure & coping behavior

  • Criminogenic needs

  • Insight and motivation

  • Institutional behavior

  • Protective factors that reduce risk

Methods & Tools

  • Structured professional judgment (HCR-20V3, SARA, SVR-20)

  • Personality & validity testing when indicated

  • Comprehensive discovery and record review

  • Clinical interview + collateral sources

All conclusions are supported by peer-reviewed forensic science and jurisdiction-consistent standards.

Deliverables

Every evaluation includes:

  • Clear, court-ready report

  • Specific risk formulation (not vague labels)

  • Base-rate context for violence risk

  • Placement & intervention recommendations

  • Expert testimony, when requested

Service Locations

  • In-person: SC, TX, MD, VA, LA

  • Tele-forensic (PSYPACT): Consultations & select civil evaluations
    in participating states nationwide

Request a Case Review

📞 (202) 209-3406
📧 mvansickle@themisforensics.org
Or use the Contact Me page.