Michael Griffin, Ph.D., ABPP
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Griffing Psychology provides a range of trial consulting and forensic psychological services. Trial consulting services offered include case conceptualization, witness preparation, jury selection, and optimization of trial presentation systems. Psychological services offered by Griffin Psychology are primarily focused on varying clinical and forensic evaluations but include preparation of psychologically derived case-relevant reports (e.g. pros/cons of an eyewitness identification) and related expert testimony. Forensic psychological work is an ever-changing endeavor depending on the type of trial, the trial dynamics, the circumstances of the case, and human factors (e.g. the impact of the judge, jurors, attorneys, witnesses, clients, and other courtroom personnel). Please explore the information provided on each of the highlighted services by clicking the associated links.
Patient-focused services are offered on a case-by-case basis and include comprehensive clinical evaluations, individual therapy, development of personal goals, and life-coaching.
Determining how to approach a case, whether civil or criminal, has a significant impact on the outcome of the proceedings. Moreover, attorneys working on a case often form very strong opinions early-on in the process based on past cases they have tried and personal biases. However, no two cases are exactly alike, and it is worthwhile to consider psychological variables that may inform case-relevant facts (e.g. the impact a defendant’s substance use may have in understanding the offense) or impact jury decision making. Case conceptualization, much like an actual trial, is a dynamic process where input is constantly being considered and discussed to develop a fair understanding of the facts.
The nuances of forensic psychology are difficult for many people to grasp. The range of clinical, forensic, and research roles of forensic psychologists can be confusing — even within the realm of psychology — and attorneys, judges, and jurors are no different. Court cases often benefit from a direct, factual, and unbiased explanation of forensic issues, such as strengths and weaknesses of eyewitness identifications.
Griffin Psychology conducts a wide-range of criminal and civil forensic evaluations on plaintiffs/defendants (as requested by either party). These evaluations include (but are not limited to) mental state at time of the offense, competency/capacity to stand trial, mitigation, disability determination/worker compensation, risk of dangerousness (and/or sexual offending), intellectual functioning (e.g., “Atkin’s” cases), etc. In addition, clinical evaluations (e.g. clinical interviews and psychological testing) are available for attorneys who simply wish to discover whether their clients have developmental delays or other psychological issues not for direct use in trial as such information may assist in the resolution of the case.
Psychologists are specialized in understanding human attitudes, behavior, and emotions. Throughout the course of a trial, jurors are exposed to information that shapes their attitudes about the defendant. While the task of jury selection can often be construed as a whirlwind of questioning and the arbitrary dismissal of potential jurors, Griffin Psychology provides an informed, research-based approach to jury selection based on sound psychological variables. As such, the jury selection process leads attorneys to be more confident in the ultimate jury panel.
Most professionals have not been trained to effectively implement visual aids or maximize their utility. We have performed a thorough review of the relevant research and conducted multiple studies to test the usefulness of presentation software. These investigations have led to a series of principles which will greatly help in the preparation of your presentation or testimony. While we primarily provide detailed feedback on the visual presentations you have already prepared and offer suggestions on how to vary your use of available technologies, we also are able to assist in preparation of materials.
People are often unaware of how others perceive them. Even the most accomplished of people can be wholly incapable of relaying information or coming across in a way consistent with their personality and intentions. More importantly, people who are able to present themselves accurately often buckle under the pressures inherent in a trial environment and make costly mistakes. Griffin Psychology witness preparation helps people to provide a true representation of who they are and best communicate the information they have been asked to offer the court.
Griffin Psychology occasionally conducts clinical evaluations for established patients or referred individuals. These evaluations are typically used by individuals interested in personal growth, job search/satisfaction, or intellectual curiosity; however, the results can also be used as future documentation of intellectual and/or cognitive functioning, personality structure, psychiatric symptoms, etc. Developmental (e.g. assessment for Pervasive Developmental Disorders, as well as gifted and/or special needs) and neuropsychological conditions assessments are not offered by Griffin Psychology at the present time.