Psychologists have varied interests within the civil court. Their involvement as skilled personnel usually targets the examination of emotional elements associated with individual injury litigation. Their key role is to examine particular emotional consequences that may emanate from traumatic hazards. In conducting their duties, an array of psychological applications and initiatives are always conducted. Of my specific interest is the competency evaluation for wills as well as guardianships (Franklin, 2011). In this category, psychologists may assess an individual’s cognitive capabilities, memory competency as well as reasoning. This is a provisional mandate within the role of psychologists in this category. It is vital to note that the outline factors remain crucial in gauging if a person is capable of executing a will. Additionally, their importance may also lie in the determination of medical instructions regarding long-term care or giving power of the judge or in opening trust accounts (Winokur, Holtan &Valentine, 2009).
The forensic has the mandate to conduct such roles in such instances. This is because they might be a factor during divorce settlements. Therefore, they might aid in comprehension of the settlement agreement as well as an individual’s competency to look after themselves given the occurrence of a divorce. The factors under scrutiny by the forensic psychologists in this category might also be significant in terms of determining employability (Franklin, 2011). These consequently resolve the allocation of resources during the divorce process. In persons within the mental decline, the psychologists bear the responsibility to find out the cognitive inadequacies inherent in such individuals. This aids the court to identify whether it is necessary to hire a guardian to control the individual’s monetary matters. In addition, such appointed persons might also make medical resolutions relating to the extensive care. The psychologists are charged with the responsibility to review the individual’s medical as well as mental documentation or history. Family members are key informants in such reviews.
References
Franklin, D. (2011). Forensic Psychology – Civil Court: Competency Evaluations – Wills and Guardianships. Web.
Winokur M, Holtan A, Valentine D. (2009). Kinship care for the safety, permanency, and well-being of children removed from the home for maltreatment. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, vol. 1(1), 146-167.