Clear answers before the work begins.

Forensic mitigation is the process of investigating and documenting the full life story and circumstances behind a person facing criminal charges. Through interviews, records review, collateral interviews, and social-history development, the work can identify relevant context involving background, trauma, relationships, health, education, substance use, strengths, and life experiences. The goal is to help defense counsel present the whole person—not only the charge.

As early as possible. Early involvement provides time to request and review records, interview the client and collateral sources, develop a comprehensive social history, identify mitigation themes, and prepare before important court proceedings. Records can take time to obtain.

Most cases take approximately 45–60 days, depending on complexity, scope, and how quickly records become available. More complex matters or significant record delays may require additional time.

Yes. Creating Belief is a Maine PDS Expert Resource and accepts both PDS-funded and privately retained criminal defense cases throughout Maine.

Yes. Individuals and families are welcome to contact Creating Belief to discuss their situation. For an active criminal case, mitigation services are generally coordinated through or with authorization from defense counsel.

The records depend on the case and available authorizations. They may include medical, mental health, educational, child-welfare (DHHS), substance-use treatment, criminal-history, probation, employment, military, correctional, and other relevant records. Records are reviewed alongside interviews and other information.

Every report is individualized. Depending on the case, it may address social and family history, childhood experiences, trauma, education, employment, medical and mental health history, substance use, relationships, criminal-justice involvement, strengths, protective factors, and themes supported by the investigation. When appropriate, it may also include individualized reentry planning and relevant community resources.

Reentry planning focuses on the path forward. Creating Belief identifies individualized needs and potential resources related to housing, treatment, employment, education, transportation, recovery support, and other stabilizing services. The goal is a realistic plan based on the person’s circumstances, needs, strengths, and available resources.

Creating Belief does not provide legal advice, psychological evaluations, clinical diagnoses, or medical opinions. Legal strategy remains the responsibility of licensed counsel. Consultations do not establish an attorney-client, therapeutic, or clinical relationship.

Criminal defense attorneys, individuals, and families can contact Creating Belief by phone or email. We will discuss the general situation, determine whether the services may be appropriate, review current availability, and explain next steps. Do not send confidential or highly sensitive case information through the general inquiry form.