Services

Barrett Critical Incident Consulting provides independent analytical support in police use-of-force and critical incident matters. Services are designed to assist attorneys with case evaluation, strategy development, and litigation preparation, while maintaining professional objectivity and methodological rigor.

Engagements may involve early case review, focused analytical work, or support throughout the life of a case.

Early, independent analysis can clarify whether a use-of-force issue is central or peripheral, defensible or vulnerable, and how it is likely to be scrutinized in litigation.

This service is commonly used to:

• Evaluate case strength and exposure

• Identify critical decision points

• Assess the role and limitations of video evidence

• Inform early strategy and resource allocation

Early review does not commit counsel to continued engagement and is often the most efficient use of expert analysis.

I provide detailed analysis of use-of-force incidents with emphasis on decision-making under rapidly evolving conditions. The focus is on how events unfolded in real time, what information was available, and how human performance factors influenced decision-making.

Analysis may include:

• Timing, distance, and movement evaluation

• Sequencing of officer and subject actions

• Changes in perceived threat or resistance

• Contextual evaluation of force options

This work is grounded in evidence and established analytical principles, not outcome-based reasoning.

Video evidence often plays a central role in modern litigation. I analyze body-worn camera and other video evidence in context, accounting for known limitations of camera perspective, frame rate, lighting, and human perception.

This analysis assists counsel in understanding:

• What visual information was available in real time

• How video may differ from human perception

• Which aspects of video are most likely to be emphasized or challenged

Video is evaluated alongside other evidence rather than in isolation.

I provide litigation support throughout the life of a case, including:

• Expert reports

• Deposition preparation and support

• Trial preparation

• Testimony, when appropriate

My role is to assist counsel in explaining complex decision-making and evidentiary issues clearly and accurately, while maintaining professional independence.

Services are tailored to the needs of each case. I work with attorneys on both sides of the bar and maintain independence in every engagement.

Specific scope, deliverables, and fees are discussed prior to engagement to ensure clarity and alignment.

I am most effective when engaged:

• During early case evaluation

• Prior to key litigation decisions

• When video evidence is central to the case

• When decision-making under time pressure is a critical issue

Early involvement often reduces downstream costs and avoids avoidable strategic missteps.