A guardian is defined as “a person or agency appointed by the Court to act on behalf of an individual.” Court appointed legal guardians make decisions for incapacitated people, including decisions about medical care and financial management. The Court is responsible for appointing a guardian for incapacitated individuals when the need for one is established. When filing a complaint for guardianship in New Jersey, an application for guardianship must be supported by an affidavit or certification of a physician or psychologist who has personally examined the incapacitated person within 6 months prior to filing. In these cases, a Forensic Psychologist can examine and evaluate the alleged incapacitated person and complete the form (Certification in Support of Guardianship Form D) or provide an affidavit with their findings. This form or affidavit is submitted to the Court and is used in support of the application.

In these cases, psychologist rely upon their evaluation skills and tools to address the psychological components of the law, such as the presence of mental illness, the degree to which that mental illness impacts the person’s functioning, and the person’s level of ability to manage his or her own affairs.

Dr. Maddux enjoys close relationships with elder law professionals and neuropsychologists.  We do not believe that forensic psychology services should only be reserved for the wealthy. Rather, everyone should be able to benefit from the profession of forensic psychology.  Our opinions are based upon the law, ethics, current research, forensic methods, neuropsychological, testing and psychological evaluation.  Call us today to learn about your options.