Now see this? Forensic evaluator opinions regarding direct observation when evaluating competency to proceed.

Despite ample best practice recommendations for competency to proceed (CTP) evaluations, direct observation of defendant-attorney interactions is an unstudied methodological technique for assessing defendants' abilities to assist and consult with their attorneys. This mixed-methods study surveyed 57 forensic evaluators regarding their history and opinions of direct observation as a component of CTP evaluations. The majority (70.20%) of forensic evaluators had engaged in direct observation on at least one occasion, with some practicing this approach in up to 85% of their evaluations. A minority endorsed or expressed concerns regarding this practice (e.g., third-party effects, violations of attorney-client privilege). Results of this study provide a preliminary indication of how evaluators perceive the potential utility and hazards of direct observation. In response, we offer a framework for approaching direct observation and highlight the need for additional research examining the impact of this methodological technique for CTP evaluations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]