Forensic Behavioral Health Court Evaluator

PeaceHealth; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 87,000; Part time

Job summary

PeaceHealth seeks a Court Evaluator Behavioral Health for a Per Diem/Relief, 0.00 FTE, Day position. Performs clinical assessments for involuntary detention, co-authors petitions, and provides expert testimony in court proceedings.

Responsible for evaluating mental health status, reviewing records, and interviewing treatment providers and witnesses. Opens investigations for 14-, 90-, or 180-day orders, collaborates with co-petitioners and Deputy Prosecutors, and prepares court documentation and

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Behavioral Health Sciences or equivalent
• Minimum 2 years crisis mental health intervention experience
• Experience using DSM-V-TR for mental health diagnoses
• Familiarity with mental health court procedures and related agencies
• Experience testifying as an expert witness
• State credential/license for clinical Behavioral Health in Washington
• Basic Life Support certification
• Knowledge of ASO and Behavioral Health Organization standards

Responsibilities

• Opens the investigation to determine if respondent meets criteria for court orders
• Requisitions and compiles mental health history and documents
• Interviews relevant persons and the respondent
• Consults with co-petitioner to determine detention grounds
• Composes petitions for continued detainment
• Collaborates with Prosecutors on court strategies and testimony
• Prepares court packets and notifies involved parties of dates
• Testifies in court and presents testimony from medical records and treatment history
• Tracks legal timelines for various detention orders and LRO revocations
• Supports trauma-informed care initiatives and staff orientation to processes

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Team collaboration

Reading medical documents

Interpreting legal documentation

Mental health evaluations

Expert testimony

Knowledge of involuntary commitment

Interviewing and assessment

Proficiency in Word/Outlook/Excel

Education

Master's Degree in Behavioral Health Sciences

WA State Social/Counseling Work Credential License/Certification

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Job description

PeaceHealth seeks a Court Evaluator Behavioral Health for a Per Diem/Relief, 0.00 FTE, Day position. Performs clinical assessments for involuntary detention, co-authors petitions, and provides expert testimony in court proceedings.

Responsible for evaluating mental health status, reviewing records, and interviewing treatment providers and witnesses. Opens investigations for 14-, 90-, or 180-day orders, collaborates with co-petitioners and Deputy Prosecutors, and prepares court documentation and