Forensic Psychology Consulting
Expert consultation for defense and prosecution attorneys on cases involving criminal psychology, sentencing mitigation, competency evaluations, and psychological assessments. Drawing on clinical and correctional experience to provide nuanced analysis of psychological factors relevant to legal proceedings.
What This Involves
Forensic psychology consulting provides attorneys with the psychological expertise they need to understand, develop, and present their cases. Rather than serving as a testifying expert, the consulting role focuses on behind-the-scenes analysis — helping legal teams understand the psychological dimensions of their cases and craft more effective strategies.
This includes evaluating mental health records for case relevance, identifying psychological factors that may support mitigation or defense arguments, assessing the credibility and methodology of opposing experts, and providing guidance on how to present complex psychological concepts to judges and juries.
Dr. Mantonya's dual perspective — clinical psychologist and correctional practitioner — allows her to bridge the gap between clinical findings and legal strategy in ways that purely academic consultants cannot.
Who This Is For
Criminal Defense Attorneys
Mitigation analysis, mental state evaluation, diminished capacity arguments, and psychological factors relevant to sentencing.
Public Defenders
Capital cases, habitual offender hearings, and cases where psychological history is central to the defense strategy.
District Attorneys
Prosecution-side psychological consultation, reviewing defense mental health claims, and preparing for cross-examination of defense experts.
Appellate Attorneys
Post-conviction mental health claims, ineffective assistance of counsel related to psychological issues, and appellate strategy consultation.
The Process
Initial Consultation
A preliminary discussion to understand the legal issues, the role psychological factors play in the case, and whether Dr. Mantonya's expertise aligns with the case needs.
Case Materials Review
Comprehensive review of discovery materials, mental health records, institutional records, police reports, and any prior psychological evaluations or expert reports.
Psychological Analysis
In-depth analysis of the psychological dimensions of the case, identifying relevant diagnoses, behavioral patterns, environmental factors, and their intersection with the legal issues.
Written Consultation Report
A detailed report summarizing findings, identifying strengths and vulnerabilities in the psychological evidence, and providing recommendations for case strategy.
Attorney Strategy Session
Collaborative discussion to translate psychological findings into legal strategy — including witness preparation, cross-examination strategies, and presentation of psychological evidence.
Bridging Clinical & Legal
Effective forensic consulting requires more than understanding psychology — it requires understanding how psychological concepts translate into legal arguments. An evaluator who has worked only in clinical settings may produce excellent clinical findings but struggle to frame them in legally relevant terms.
The Intersection of Clinical & Correctional
Forensic consulting bridges the gap between clinical findings and legal strategy. Understanding how a defendant's mental health history interacts with their correctional experience requires an evaluator who has worked in both worlds.
Rates & Details
Forensic consulting services are structured to accommodate the varied needs of legal cases. Hourly billing is the standard arrangement, with flat-rate options available for projects with a clearly defined scope. Retainer arrangements are available for firms with ongoing consulting needs.
- Hourly Consulting: $350–$600/hour depending on case complexity
- Flat-Rate Projects: Available for defined-scope engagements (case review, single-issue analysis)
- Retainer Arrangements: Available for ongoing cases or firms with recurring needs
- Initial Consultation: Brief case screening available to determine fit before formal engagement
Need Forensic Psychology Consulting?
Contact Dr. Mantonya to discuss your case and explore how forensic psychology consultation can strengthen your legal strategy.
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