Psycho-legal Assessments

Psycho-legal assessments serve as a bridge between psychology and the judicial system. Psycho-legal assessment is a psychological assessment in the legal context, thus these assessments are done to provide expert input on a specific aspect of functioning as directed by the question being put before the court. It also involves an extensive understanding of laws related to families and children, developmental psychology, psychopathology and family dynamics to be able to provide important information to judges, attorneys, legal professionals, and parents.

At RediMan Wellness, we offer comprehensive psycho-legal evaluations for: 

  • Neuro and cognitive psychological assessments
  • Care and contact / custody and access assessments
  • Impact of unfair dismissal from employment
Neuro and Cognitive Psychological Assessments
Situations may arise as a result of motor vehicle- and pedestrian-vehicle accidents, the court or a legal third party frequently asks for a psycho-legal report. The most prevalent cases involving psycho-legal reports include road accident injuries handled by the Road Accident Fund (RAF).

In the South African context, psychologists registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) are eligible to conduct psycho-legal assessments. Moreover, the psychologists demonstrate exceptional proficiency in applying psychological principles within the legal system. By doing so, they establish themselves as esteemed professionals in this particular field and may subsequently be recognised by the court as expert witnesses.

The psycho-legal report will be utilised as medical evidence in support of a personal injury claim, specifically addressing the psychological and cognitive effects experienced by individuals of all ages who have suffered an injury.
A medico-legal report determines:
  • The severity of the emotional, psychosocial and cognitive damage
  • The impact of the damage on the person's ability to function and work
  • The extent of the losses suffered because of the incident due to not being able to work or the cost of medical expenses
  • Treatment suggestions and the chances of recovery
If a legal representative has requested your presence at a psycho-legal assessment, you may be curious about the process involved in making a psycho-legal claim.

The assessment will include a comprehensive interview in our capacity as clinical psychologists. We enquire about your background and the incident. This is aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of your medical history, personality, and any potential history of mental illness.

After the assessment, the client will have the opportunity to take psychometric tests. Once all the necessary information has been collected, a comprehensive report will be compiled and promptly sent to the legal representative who requested the assessment. The duration of the process is determined by the level of complexity of the case.

When requesting a psycho-legal evaluation, it is of utmost importance that the legal representative rather than the client makes contact with RediMan Wellness regarding the request, booking, and receipt of the report.

In South Africa, medical aids do not cover psycho-legal assessments. Instead, the legal representative is responsible for paying the psychologist. The fees for psycho-legal assessments are charged on an hourly basis, which includes the time spent gathering evidence and writing the report. Additionally, there will be a separate fee for court appearances and any associated travel expenses.

What to expect during the assessment
During an assessment, we will ask you about your medical history, the road accident, and any symptoms you are experiencing. We may also use psychological tests to assess your cognitive function, memory, attention, problem-solving skills, and emotional state. 
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Care and Contact / Custody and Access Assessments
Child custody assessments are conducted to help courts make decisions about the best interests of children in divorce or separation cases. Our clinical psychologist conducts custody assessments to gather information about the parents and children, their relationships, and their needs.
What to expect during the assessment:
During a custody assessment, our clinical psychologist will meet with each parent and child individually. We will ask questions about the family history, the parenting styles, and the relationship with the child. We may also use psychological tests to assess your parenting skills, mental health, and personality traits.
The assessment typically involves the following:
  • Psycho-diagnostic assessment of the child/children
  • Psychological profiling of the parents/caregivers
  • Parenting Capacity assessment of the parents/caregivers
  • Home visits
  • Consultations with collateral sources
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Assessment Services for the Effects of Unfair Dismissal from Work
Unfair dismissal from work can have a significant impact on mental and emotional health. It can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, and anger. It can also damage your self-esteem and confidence.

If you have been unfairly dismissed from work, it is important to seek professional help. Our clinical psychologist can assess the effects of the dismissal on the client’s mental health and provide them with the support needed to heal and move on.
What to expect during the assessment:
During an assessment, our clinical psychologist will ask about the experiences and how it is affecting the client. We may also use psychological tests to assess the mood, anxiety, stress levels, and other mental health factors.

Once the assessment is complete, our clinical psychologist will discuss their findings with the client and develop a treatment plan. The treatment plan may include individual therapy, group therapy, or other interventions.
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Why RediMan Wellness Psycho-legal Assessments? 
  • Our clinical psychologists are registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the South African Medico-Legal Association (SAMLA).
  • All our assessments are done in the strictest of confidence
  • A professional, detailed report is provided on completion of the assessment.
  • Key areas of concern are identified
  • Suggested therapies and or treatment remedies are provided.
  • Our registered clinical psychologist has years of extensive experience in psycho-legal assessments.
  • We provide parent guidance and family support. 
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