The Forensic Psychiatry Division of the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria (UICOMP) was established in 2009 to address clinical, legal, educational, academic and public policy concerns involving law and mental health issues. The Division has implemented a broad scope of services and programs to serve the College of Medicine and regional and state community.
Professional services are available to attorneys, judges, government organizations, law enforcement, businesses and others. We offer experienced and unbiased professional opinions about a wide array of legal questions, including criminal and civil competency, the insanity defense, personal injury, medical malpractice, fitness for duty, and wrongful termination. The vast resources of the College of Medicine are available to provide comprehensive assessments and accurate, credible opinions and reports to referring parties. Deposition and testimony are easily scheduled. Rapid turnaround time is a priority.
The Division acts as a resource to state and administrative organizations in the creation of public policy or statutes when the disciplines of law and mental illness interface. Leaders of the Division have contributed in the areas of sex offender evaluations, criminal responsibility, workers’ compensation and civil commitment legislation.
Legal Services
We are able to coordinate the evaluation of all types of forensic mental health cases. Our free, preliminary case review assists referrers in determining the next steps to take. Interviews with clients are scheduled promptly. Psychological testing is performed when indicated. Advanced forensic methods such as the Abel Assessment of Sexual Interest, measures of malingering, and extensive psychological testing may be arranged. Accurate reports, written clearly and concisely, provide independent and supported opinions. We recognize the time constraints of many referrers so are experienced in ensuring easy communication and rapid turnaround.
The Forensic Psychiatry Service at UICOMP offers a unique advantage to referrers with our ready access to clinical consultation for complex cases. Clinical consultation has been a common and routine practice in medicine for decades. We will obtain consultation in a limited aspect of a legal case using a tested method that reflects best practices in an academic setting. The ability to consider the independent, blinded, input from a trusted colleague often proves exceptionally useful and will yield positive benefits in certain cases.
We have cumulatively assessed over 600 forensic cases and are experienced in deposition and expert testimony.
To schedule an appointment or get more information, please call 309-671-8385 and speak with Kristy Worrell, Forensic Coordinator.
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