Competency to Stand Trial Assessment

Our forensic competency to stand trial assessments in Sugar Land and the Greater Houston area determine whether a defendant has the mental capacity to understand legal proceedings and effectively assist in their defense. This comprehensive evaluation reviews cognitive abilities, courtroom role comprehension, decision-making capacity, and identifies any psychiatric conditions that could impair competency. If a defendant is found incompetent, our expert team provides tailored recommendations for treatment or restoration to ensure a fair legal process.

Who Can Conduct This Assessment?

In Texas, under Article 46B.022 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, court-appointed experts evaluating a defendant’s competency to stand trial must be licensed psychiatrists or psychologists with specialized forensic training and experience. They are also required to complete continuing education in forensic psychiatry or psychology. Presently, Dr. Derek Ream meets these requirements and provides this assessment.

What's Involved in This Assessment?

The psychologist conducts a forensic interview, administers targeted tests, reviews key records, and observes behavior—either in person or via secure online sessions (depending on the jurisdiction)—to determine if the defendant can understand legal proceedings and assist counsel in their legal defense.

How to Get Started?

A competency evaluation can be initiated when there’s concern that a defendant may not fully understand the legal process or be able to assist their attorney. This concern may be raised by the defense counsel, the prosecutor, or even by the judge on their own motion. The process typically begins with a motion or informal inquiry in court—using observations, behavioral evidence, and relevant records (like prior psychiatric history or arrest reports)—to determine if there is sufficient doubt about the defendant’s competence. If the court finds credible evidence, it will order a formal competency evaluation and appoint a qualified forensic expert (usually a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist who meets specific training criteria) to conduct the assessment, either in person or through secure online platforms.

How the Process Works:

Forensic Assessment

At the start of your evaluation, your psychologist will conduct an in-depth interview to learn about your background and any cognitive or emotional symptoms you’re experiencing. You will also complete specific psychological tests to gather additional data. The overall duration of the assessment depends on your unique situation, but most average between one to three hours. If further questions or extra sessions are required beyond the initial evaluation, your psychologist will notify your attorney.

Report of Findings

After the assessment is completed, the psychologist will compile a detailed report summarizing the evaluation’s findings and recommendations regarding your competency to stand trial. This report is then forwarded directly to the court and your attorney, providing them with the critical information needed to inform their decision-making. Please note that the defendant will not receive a copy of this report.

Get Started

Step 1

Schedule your assessment online by calling us at 281-402-9227.

Step 2

New examinee paperwork will be sent to you in advance to be completed via our secure HIPAA-compliant platform. (Please complete and submit your paperwork no later than 24 hours prior to your appointment).

Step 3

Meet with your psychologist in person, or, over video using our HIPAA-compliant platform - a link will be emailed to you to access your appointment in advance.