HOW WE CAN HELP YOU
Have you been charged with a crime (e.g., domestic violence, crimes of a sexual nature, property offences, drug and alcohol related offences)? OR is there a potential for appearing in a tribunal, magistrate or district court?
If you answered Yes to either of these questions you may benefit from a pre-sentence court report.
What is a pre-sentence court report used for?
A pre-sentence report is an impartial psychological evaluation that is used to assist the courts in making informed sentencing decisions.
Pre-sentence assessments can, and generally are, conducted during one of the following three stages:
- When there is a risk of being formally charged
- When an individual is formally charged or;
- Prior to sentencing.
They are often requested to examine the mitigating factors related to the individual’s alleged actions.
What do pre-sentence reports involve?
These assessments require a psychological evaluation. This assessment is conducted through a clinical interview which includes:
- Psychometric testing (a way to measure mental ability and behavioural style)
- Investigation into the context/circumstances of the allegations/actions
- Assessment on potential to re-offend
- Consideration of suitability for treatment
- Practical recommendations for ongoing management, specialist support and treatment.
Reflections Psychology provides pre-sentence Psychological court reports for clients regarding criminal matters in the Australian magistrate and district courts.
The Benefits of Having a Pre-Sentence Court Report.
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Better Understanding
Your report will provide the court with a specialist psychological assessment/interpretation of your ‘human behaviours’. Many of these behaviours are often quite complex. This allows the courts to make further informed decisions based on a broader understanding of your situation.
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Mitigating Factors
Factors such as Psychological state and/or pre-determined treatment strategies may be deemed as a “Mitigating Factor” and may result in a lesser penalty. The Criminal Justice System in Australia takes the view that rehabilitation takes precedence in reducing the chances of re-offending.
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Moving Forward
Our aim is to return individuals to a productive and fulfilling life.We are able to provide a range of treatment options to assist you.
HOW TO GET A REPORT
Do you need a court report?
We suggest that we have an initial discussion regarding your situation to help us determine the best course of action for your needs. Please email us reflectionspsychology@gmail.com to arrange a consultation.
How Much Does It Cost?
- Our fees vary dependent on the complexity of the report.
- Court Reports and Assessments: Ranges between $1000.00 and $3500.00 (ranges dependent on complexity of the assessment)
What happens next?
- If you choose, or are required to proceed, with a court report either yourself or your lawyer can make an appointment for a 120-minute clinical interview with our team (visits to Correctional Centre’s can easily be arranged.) You can use the form on this page to book your clinical interview appointment, alternatively you can email or call us.
- Once the clinical interview is complete we then compile your report which is then provided to the necessary recipients such as your solicitor.
- Should ongoing treatment be a consideration we will continue to work with you on a regular basis.
Contact Reflections Psychology Services to assist you with your court case.