The Evaluation
Is the evaluation more like a test or an interview?
It is more like an interview.
What are the two main results you may hear after an evaluation?
Able or Not able.
What are the 4 types of pleas?
GEI, no contest, guilty, or not guilty
Who wrote the order that sent you to community restoration?
The Judge
What are some things you can do at Glisan to prepare for court and/or a forensic interview?
Legal skills, take your medication, engage in programming, talk to your attorney, attend mental health appointments, etc.
Who will be doing your evaluation?
A psychologist or psychiatrist
What does an "Able" finding mean?
It means the evaluator believes you are ready to aid and assist your attorney with your defense.
What are the different options for sentencing?
Fines, probation, jail, prison, community service, or something else decided by the Judge
Can you return to court with mental illness symptoms?
Yes, as long as they do not interfere with your participation and understanding of the court
Do you know your charges and their maximum sentences?
You will need to know these for the Evaluation. Ask your CM or attorney if you are unsure.
Can your lawyer be present for your evaluation?
Yes, you can ask them, but it is their decision whether to attend.
What does a "Not Able" finding mean?
Not able means that, at the moment, the evaluator believes that you are not ready to aid and assist your attorney in your defense. In other words, they think you should continue treatment to work on legal skills.
What is the plea of no contest?
The defendant does not admit guilt but chooses not to fight against the charge.
What is the more serious class of crime?
Felony
Do you know who your attorney is?
Nice.
What types of questions might the evaluator ask you during an evaluation?
legal skills questions, mental health questions, and general questions about you.
What are the next steps if you are found able?
You can begin working on your legal case with your attorney.
What happens if you plead not guilty?
A trial - either bench or jury
What is the least serious type of crime?
Misdemeanor
Do you know who your prescriber is?
Talk to staff or your CM if you have questions about your prescriber.
What is the purpose of a Forensic Evaluation?
Determine if you are able to aid and assist. Specifically, they are looking to see if you can cooperate with your attorney, understand the legal skills information, and participate with your attorney in forming your defense.
What are the next steps if you are found not able?
You continue engaging in treatment and working on legal skills.
What happens if the defendant pleads guilty or no contest?
Sentencing
What are the Miranda Rights?
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney, If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you
Do you know what medications you take?
You will need to know this for the Evaluation. Talk to staff or your prescriber if you have questions.