FAQ

  • We complete forensic risk, humanitarian, diagnostic, and bail assessments for criminal, immigration, and licensing matters.

  • Yes. In-custody assessments are available and may include added coordination, travel fees, or fees associated with increased time due to technological restrictions imposed by any specific facility. These will be reviewed openly before scheduling.

  • Fees are flat-rate to ensure predictability and fairness. All additional costs (such as in-custody travel) are discussed in advance.

  • Our rates are significantly below the Alberta Psychological Association’s published fee guidelines for forensic assessments, reflecting our commitment to accessibility and transparency.

  • Additional fees apply only when extra time or coordination is required beyond the standard assessment process. These situations may include travel time, arranging in-custody interviews, attending court or hearings, or resulting from incomplete or disorganized referral materials.

    At Five Point Forensics, we make every effort to minimize these costs. Any potential additional fees are always reviewed with clients before proceeding, ensuring full transparency and predictability.

  • Interpreters play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and validity of a final report. Because the interview process often involves complex mental health and legal topics, it is essential that a qualified interpreter is used.

    To avoid conflicts of interest, family members and friends cannot serve as interpreters during any part of the assessment process.

    At Five Point Forensics, all interpreter services are arranged exclusively through professionals registered with the Alberta Court Interpreters Association. This ensures that all interpreting is completed by certified individuals experienced in both legal and mental health settings.

    Interpreter fees are billed directly by the provider, typically ranging from $45 to $80 per hour. These costs are discussed with clients prior to scheduling and are added to the overall assessment fee.

    Not sure if you need an interpreter? Download the interpretation screening forms located on the client’s page. Be sure to select the appropriate version based on whether you are an individual or a lawyer

  • Payments are accepted by e-transfer or credit card (3 % processing fee). Full payment is required before reports are released. Court attendance is billed after completion and due within 30 days. Cancellations within 24 hours incur a $200 fee, and refunds are not issued for completed work.

  • Yes. At Five Points, our primary means of assessment is via video conferencing using the Zoom platform. In this way, we maintain the highest degree of accessibility for all our clients while supporting our reduced cost structure.

  • Assessment interviews are completed by secure video (Zoom). A desktop or laptop computer is strongly recommended, as phones often cause problems with sound, video, and internet connection.

    You will need a reliable internet connection, a working camera and microphone, and a quiet, private space. If an interview must be stopped or rescheduled due to technical issues, your retainer fee will be forfeited, reflecting the time set aside for the interview and the initial coordination.

    If you are unsure whether your setup will work, please download the “Tech Requirements” form located on this page and contact us before the interview if that information sheet was not helpful.

  • Standard reports are completed in 2–4 weeks. Expedited service under 2 weeks is available for an additional fee.

    I want to let you know that many items such as wait times associated with document collection, or availability of collateral parties can impact completion times and remain out of our control.

    At Five Points, we make every effort to streamline the assessment process and reduce potential delays.

  • A file is considered complex when multiple clinical, historical, or contextual factors must be integrated, or when the referral information is incomplete, disorganized, or requires extensive clarification. Complex assessments involve additional review, coordination, and analysis beyond the scope of a standard assessment.

    Our goal is to consider every assessment as standard. You can help ensure a standard assessment and its associated costs by submitting organized materials and engaging promptly in the overall process.

  • A risk assessment can be helpful at almost any stage of a legal matter. That said, earlier is generally better.

    When completed early, an assessment allows time to:

    • Identify relevant risk and protective factors

    • Begin addressing identified concerns proactively

    • Engage in treatment or programming where appropriate

    • Demonstrate insight, stability, and meaningful efforts toward change over time

    Early assessment provides a clearer picture of current functioning and trajectory, rather than a snapshot taken at the last moment. It also allows progress to be documented, which may be more informative than a single point-in-time opinion.

    That said, assessments can still be useful later in the process, including when circumstances change, new information becomes available, or updated opinions are required.

Tech Requirements