Forensic Mental Health Evaluators

The Seventeenth Judicial Circuit is now accepting submissions from qualified psychiatrists, psychologists, and physicians interested in serving as a neutral expert for the court by evaluating criminal defendants for competency or competency-related mental health issues, and providing in-court testimony, when required.  Successful applicants are considered independent contractors and will be required to execute a contract with the Circuit.

To qualify for consideration, the applicant must (1) be a licensed psychologist, psychiatrist, or physician; (2) have completed forensic evaluator training, as required by section 916.115, Florida Statutes; (3) demonstrate general knowledge of court proceedings and competency-related topics, including relevant provisions of Florida Statutes and the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure; and (4) have experience performing competency or competency-related mental health evaluations (preferably in a jail, prison or forensic hospital setting).

Successful applicants will be compensated by the Court for each evaluation completed and for time spent providing in-court testimony.  The Circuit’s administrative order governing the selection, appointment, and payment of court appointed mental health experts may be viewed Here.  Applicants should be aware that evaluations may be videotaped and/or attended by the attorneys in the case or a court reporter.

Each submission should include a cover letter indicating the applicant’s experience and interest, a current resume or curriculum vitae, and proof of any licensure or certification(s).

An applicant must submit one original submission along with three copies.  Submissions should be mailed or hand delivered to the following address:

Office of the Trial Court Administrator
Attn. General Counsel
Broward County Courthouse
201 Southeast 6th Street, Room WW20170 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301

Upon receipt, your application will be reviewed and you may be contacted to schedule an interview.  Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Judge Louis H. Schiff was featured this past Friday in the MinnPost. To read the article click here: Meet the Mets-loving Florida judge who teaches a law school class — at CHS Field?

Please be advised, effective April 15, 2019, The Seventeenth Circuit will expand the Pilot Program to allow Self Scheduling of Criminal Hearings for all Circuit Criminal Divisions in the Court Management System.

Click the Training Video below to learn more.

The Lauderhill Regional Chamber of Commerce recognized Judge Jackie Powell at the 6th LRCC Annual Women of Distinction Awards Breakfast.