Fitness to Plead Assessment
Independent assessment of fitness to plead applying the Pritchard criteria as modified by case law. Our forensic psychiatrists provide opinion on whether defendants have the mental capacity to participate effectively in criminal proceedings and stand trial in England and Wales.
When This Report Is Instructed
- Cases where the defendant's mental capacity to stand trial is in doubt
- Defendants with learning disabilities, dementia, or severe mental illness
- Cases involving brain injury or neurodegenerative conditions
- Where there are concerns about ability to instruct solicitors
- Cases where fitness to plead has been raised by the court
- Appeals against findings of unfitness to plead
What the Report Covers
- Comprehensive forensic psychiatric assessment
- Review of prosecution evidence and defence materials
- Assessment against the Pritchard criteria (as modified)
- Evaluation of ability to understand the charges
- Assessment of ability to understand the difference between guilty and not guilty pleas
- Evaluation of ability to instruct legal representatives
- Assessment of ability to follow proceedings in court
- Evaluation of ability to challenge jurors and witnesses
- Assessment of ability to give evidence if choosing to do so
- Opinion on whether unfitness is likely to be temporary or permanent
The report provides independent expert psychiatric opinion to assist the court or tribunal and does not determine liability, findings of fact, or legal outcomes.
Expert Standards
Duty to the Court
Independent, objective opinion uninfluenced by the instructing party.
CPR Part 35 Compliance
Full compliance with CPR Part 35 and Practice Direction.
Statement of Truth
Expert declaration and Statement of Truth included.
This applies equally to claimant, defendant, and single joint expert instructions.
How to Instruct
Send your instruction
Email instruct@psychiatric.report with your letter of instruction, relevant documents, medical records, and questions to address.
Assessment arranged
Assessment arranged remotely or at a suitable location, as required by the instruction.
Draft report issued
Draft report provided for review. Part 35 questions and addenda addressed as applicable.
Final report delivered
Final report with CPR declarations. Court attendance available if required.
Practicalities
Turnaround
3–5 weeks standard; expedited available subject to availability
Indicative Fee
£1,800–£2,500
Subject to complexity and records volume
Additional work: Part 35 questions, addenda, joint statements, and court attendance are available where required. Fees for additional work are confirmed once scope is clear.
We typically respond within 1 working day.