Where psychology meets strategy
Shadow Mind Consulting was founded by Benjamin John, MA, to give defense teams a unique edge: clear, courtroom ready narratives built from complex psychosocial and mental health history. With a background in psychology and mental health counseling, Benjamin interprets and applies psychological concepts in practical, accessible ways - saving attorneys time, strengthening case strategy, and ensuring no angle is left unexplored in pursuit of proportionate justice.
My Approach
Cut Through the Noise
Case files are often messy, incomplete, and full of jargon. I distill the essential information into clear, persuasive summaries that judges, juries, or mediators can use. Saving you time and stress on overloaded cases.
Build Stronger Arguments
Rather than piecing together a narrative from scratch, get courtroom-ready briefs with an executive summary, key background considerations, and practical sentencing considerations. Designed to provide a structure that you can build on immediately.
Case Consult ( 1 page )
Focused feedback on a specific issue
Quick turnaround for urgent needs
Clear and concise interpretation
Services
Case Summary ( 2-3 pages )
Executive summary of key psychosocial factors
Identification of risk factors and strengths
Intervention options and plea/sentencing arguments
Immediate action steps for the client
Full Mitigation ( 10-15 pages)
Comprehensive psychosocial history and analysis
Review of records and collateral documents
Direct client interview (under attorney instruction)
Court ready narrative highlighting mitigating factors
Recommendations for long-term outcomes and reduced recidivism
Start the Conversation
Schedule a free 15-minute introductory call discuss your case needs
FAQ
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We’ll start with a conversation about your case and what you need most. From there, I’ll outline the scope of services that make sense for your situation — whether it’s a focused case consult, a summary report, or a full mitigation. You’ll know exactly what to expect, what I’ll need from you, and when you’ll receive it
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My services are structured into three tiers:
Case Consult – a focused 1-page brief on a specific issue.
Case Summary – a 2–3 page narrative with mitigating factors, risk analysis, and sentencing options.
Full Mitigation – a comprehensive report (10–15 pages) including client interview and psychosocial analysis.
Pricing varies depending on the scope and complexity of the case. Once I understand your needs, I’ll provide a clear, fixed rate before we begin so there are no surprises.
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I work through your office under a letter of engagement, so you remain in full control of the case. Any direct contact with your client is coordinated through you. My role is advisory and informational only — you decide how to use my input in your legal strategy. This ensures confidentiality, efficiency, and that your client always feels supported within your representation.