Case Review Services
• Standard-of-care analysis in correctional mental health treatment
• Suicide and attempted-suicide reviews (screening, risk assessment, monitoring, response)
• Review of in-custody deaths, including overdose, withdrawal, and decompensation
• Analysis of segregation, restraint, and use-of-force involving individuals with mental illness
• Policy, training, and supervision adequacy
• Affidavits, written reports, deposition, and trial testimony
Reviews are based on records, applicable correctional and clinical standards (including NCCHC, ACA, and APA guidance where relevant), and the facility’s own policies. Opinions are tied to identifiable evidence, and areas of uncertainty are stated rather than glossed. Standard-of-care opinions are informed by Dr. Patterson’s direct operational experience leading a jail behavioral health program, multi-year monitoring of a major state correctional system, and clinical training in forensic inpatient and juvenile justice settings.
Dr. Patterson is licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, and has reviewed cases in jurisdictions across the country. Because case review and expert testimony are forensic activities — not the provision of treatment — these engagements are routinely accepted in states where Dr. Patterson does not hold a clinical license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept cases for plaintiffs and defendants?
Yes. Dr. Patterson is regularly retained by both plaintiffs’ and defense counsel, including government and institutional defendants, and applies the same analytic standards regardless of the retaining party.
What materials do you need to begin a review?
A typical review starts with the complaint or claim summary, available custodial and medical/mental health records, relevant facility policies, and any incident, mortality review, or investigative reports. Additional records are requested as the review progresses.
Will you provide a preliminary opinion before a full report?
Yes. Many engagements begin with a confidential preliminary review and oral consultation so counsel can make an informed decision about retention and direction before a written report is prepared.
How are fees structured?
Dr. Patterson works on an hourly basis with a retainer, with separate rates for review, report preparation, deposition, and trial testimony. A fee schedule is provided on request.
Are conflict checks required before sharing case details?
Yes. Please request a conflict check with the names of parties and counsel before forwarding any case materials.