Why It Holds Up
Objectivity Is the Strength
Adjudicators see a great many psychological reports, and the ones that carry weight rarely come from a template. A strong evaluation establishes the nexus, connecting specific clinical findings to the exact legal standard, uses validated methods that withstand scrutiny, and diagnoses only where the clinical picture supports one. An objective evaluator is more credible precisely because the opinion is not predetermined. When the clinical facts support your client, a rigorous and impartial evaluation makes that support land.
This guide is informational for licensed attorneys and is not legal advice. It does not create a professional relationship or guarantee any evaluation finding or case outcome.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration Evaluations
What types of immigration evaluations does SOMA prepare?
SOMA prepares psychological evaluations for the full range of immigration matters, including extreme hardship for I-601 and I-601A waivers, asylum, U visa, VAWA, and T visa cases. Each evaluation is matched to the specific legal standard your case relies on, so the clinical findings speak directly to what the adjudicator must decide. Evaluations are conducted by Dr. Reyna Aday, PhD, LMHC, a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, in English and Spanish. This is informational and not legal advice, and no evaluation finding or case outcome is guaranteed.
What makes a psychological evaluation persuasive to adjudicators?
Adjudicators review many reports, and the ones that carry weight rarely come from a template. A persuasive evaluation establishes the nexus, connecting specific clinical findings to the exact legal standard at issue, whether that is extreme hardship, a well-founded fear, or the harm at the center of a U visa or VAWA claim. It relies on validated methods that withstand scrutiny and diagnoses only where the clinical picture supports one. An objective evaluator is more credible precisely because the opinion is not predetermined. When the clinical facts support your client, rigor and impartiality are what make that support land.
How long does an evaluation take, and what is the timeline?
Timeline depends on case complexity, the number of interview sessions needed, and record review, but SOMA works to the deadlines your filing requires. Once the referral and records are in hand, the process moves through clinical interviews, testing where appropriate, and a written report. When a matter is time sensitive, tell us the filing date at the outset so we can confirm whether it is workable before you commit. Rush timelines can sometimes be accommodated. Specifics on turnaround are confirmed during the initial call, since every case carries a different scope.
What are the fees, and how is the evaluation billed?
Immigration evaluations are billed as a professional service on a flat-fee basis tied to the evaluation type and scope, rather than by contingency. This protects the objectivity of the opinion, since the evaluator has no stake in the outcome. Fees, what the fee includes, and any additional costs such as testing or expert testimony are confirmed during the initial consultation. SOMA can also discuss retainer arrangements for firms that refer regularly. This is informational and not legal advice, and no case outcome is guaranteed.
How does the referral process work for attorneys?
The process starts with a brief call to confirm the evaluation type, the legal standard involved, and the timeline. From there you refer your client, share the relevant records, and SOMA schedules the clinical interviews. You receive a written report prepared to withstand scrutiny, and Dr. Aday can clarify findings as your case proceeds. Firms that refer often can set up an ongoing relationship so future referrals move quickly. Evaluations are available in English and Spanish. To begin, schedule a short call and we will walk you through the next steps for your specific matter.