California PC 288.1 Evaluations

PC 288.1 Psychosexual/Sex Offense Risk Assessment

Under California Penal Code 288.1, individuals who are charged with any “lewd or lascivious act” against a child under 14 must participate in a evaluation “from a reputable psychologist” if probation, or a suspended sentence can be considered.

Over a decade of highly specialized experience evaluating sexual offense behaviors

At Elara Psychology, we bring extensive expertise to the evaluation and risk assessment of individuals charged with or convicted of sexual offenses. Our work is grounded in evidence-based practices, clinical rigor, and an unwavering commitment to objectivity and fairness.

Dr. Sarah DeMarco, a forensic psychologist in Los Angeles, has conducted hundreds of sex offender risk assessments and served as an expert witness in dozens of criminal and civil cases involving allegations of sexual offending. Her experience spans a wide spectrum of cases — from first-time contact offenses and online sexual behavior (including child sexual abuse material [CSAM] offenses) to evaluations of individuals designated as sexually violent predators (SVP).

Dr. DeMarco has been retained by both prosecution and defense in multiple jurisdictions across two states, offering a balanced and nuanced perspective that courts and attorneys trust. Her evaluations are context-specific, research-informed, and tailored to address the unique clinical and legal questions of each case.

Dr. DeMarco has authored a book chapter on the topic and has provided trainings for attorneys and mental health professionals on the evaluation of sexual offense behaviors. Her work reflects a deep understanding of the literature and the complexities of problematic sexual behavior.

What to expect:

Close consultation with attorneys

Virtual or in-person clinical-forensic interview, including exploration of sexual history

Review of legal, medical, and other relevant records

Psychological testing when necessary

Collateral interviews with family, friends, treatment providers

Use of a formal risk assessment instrument, using a structured professional judgment and risk management approach

A comprehensive, defensible report with treatment recommendations

Expert witness testimony, if requested

The Elara approach

Our expert forensic psychologists have years of experience evaluating and diagnosing mental health disorders and applying clinical concepts to legal issues. Together, we have evaluated thousands of individuals who have been arrested and charged with various offenses. We approach every case with objectivity, thoroughness, and compassion toward all examinees, no matter their allegations.