What to expect from an assessment

No. Individuals and family members may contact us directly. Depending on the purpose and circumstances, legal advice may still be appropriate, but it is not required simply to ask whether an assessment may help.

We normally acknowledge an initial enquiry within one working day. After clarifying the scope, we normally provide a quotation within 1–2 working days.

Reports are typically delivered within 2–3 weeks after the required records have been received and the assessment is complete. Urgent matters are considered subject to availability.

Fees depend on the type and complexity of the assessment, volume of records, travel, urgency and report requirements. A clear quotation is provided before chargeable work begins.

Assessments may take place in the person’s home or care home across Greater London, the East of England, South East, South West and Midlands. Online assessment is available where clinically and legally appropriate.

A clinical interview often takes approximately one to two hours, but this varies according to the decision, complexity, communication needs and the person’s ability to participate.

This depends on the question. Relevant medical and care records, legal documents, a letter of instruction and contextual information may be required. Retrospective opinions usually benefit from the fullest available contemporaneous evidence.

A limited preliminary review may be considered where appropriate. Its usefulness depends on the records available. The scope, limits, fee and relationship to any later full report are agreed in advance.

No. The website form is for a brief initial outline only. If the matter proceeds, secure transfer arrangements will be provided separately.

No. Capacity is decision-specific and time-specific. A diagnosis or cognitive score may be relevant evidence but does not, by itself, determine the conclusion.