Your Trusted Partner in Vocational Forensic Science
At Stroud Vocational Expert Services, we specialize in providing thorough, defensible, and data-driven evaluations in the field of vocational forensic science. Located in the heart of Guntersville, AL, our team brings together a broad base of talent with specialized knowledge and hands-on experience in complex Earnings Capacity assessments.
Our mission is clear: To better serve our customers by bringing together a broad base of talent with specialized knowledge and experience representing the field of vocational forensic science.
We stand by this commitment by offering expert services that support legal professionals, insurance companies, and individuals navigating cases where loss of earnings, work capacity, or employability is questioned.
What Is Earnings Capacity and Why Does It Matter?
Earnings Capacity refers to an individual’s ability to earn income, taking into account their education, skills, work history, age, physical and mental condition, and labor market conditions. It is not the same as actual earnings; instead, it’s a projection based on objective evidence and vocational analysis.
Earnings capacity is frequently evaluated in situations involving:
Personal injury
Workers' compensation
Divorce proceedings
Long-term disability claims
Employment discrimination
Wrongful termination
At Stroud Vocational Expert Services, our role is to analyze vocational factors and provide a comprehensive, impartial opinion regarding an individual’s potential to work and earn — past, present, and future.
Our Core Services
Vocational Evaluations
We provide detailed vocational evaluations that assess a person’s work skills, abilities, training, and aptitudes in relation to the current job market. These evaluations are essential in determining Earnings Capacity in litigation and insurance claims.
Our evaluations include:
• Occupational history analysis
• Skills transferability analysis
• Labor market research
• Employment potential assessment
• Wage earning analysis Read More
Earnings Capacity Assessment
A key service we offer is our specialized Earnings Capacity assessment. This involves evaluating an individual’s ability to work and earn money both now and in the future. Whether due to injury, illness, or life circumstances, we determine realistic earning projections based on vocational and economic principles.
We use objective, validated tools and methodologies to assess:
• Long-term income potential
• Employability with accommodations
• Impact of physical and psychological impairments on career
• Availability of jobs within the individual’s geographical region Read More
Expert Witness Testimony
Our team has extensive experience in providing expert witness testimony in both state and federal courts. When your case hinges on work capacity or Earnings Capacity, you need clear, credible, and articulate testimony grounded in professional standards and real-world data.
We offer testimony support for:
• Personal injury litigation
• Family law disputes (e.g., alimony, spousal support)
• Employment law matters
• Disability claims
• Pension and benefits evaluations Read More
Labor Market Surveys
Understanding the job market is critical when analyzing Earnings Capacity. We conduct labor market surveys that analyze current trends, wage data, hiring practices, and employment opportunities in specific fields and geographic areas.
This data supports vocational reports and testimony by providing a factual foundation for employability and wage estimates.
Read More
Why Choose Stroud Vocational Expert Services?
Expertise Rooted in Vocational Forensic Science: Our professionals come from diverse backgrounds in vocational rehabilitation, career counseling, and forensic analysis. This multidisciplinary approach ensures our reports are accurate, detailed, and court-defensible.
Personalized Attention: We understand that every case is unique. Our experts take time to listen, research, and deliver findings that reflect the nuances of each client’s situation.
Local Insight, National Reach: Although based in Guntersville, AL, our services extend regionally and nationally. We understand Southern labor markets intimately and apply this knowledge to support cases throughout the U.S.
Ethical, Objective, and Reliable: We maintain the highest standards of ethics and objectivity. Our findings are based on evidence, not assumptions, ensuring credibility in courtrooms and negotiations.
Who We Serve
Attorneys representing plaintiffs or defendants in personal injury, divorce, or employment law
Insurance companies need objective vocational analysis for claims evaluation
Individuals seeking clarity on work abilities post-injury or medical diagnosis
HR professionals and corporate entities involved in workplace accommodations and litigation
Real-World Scenarios Where Earnings Capacity Matters
Post-Injury Employment Disputes: An individual injured in an accident claims they can no longer work. Our evaluation determines whether they can perform alternative work and at what wage.
Divorce & Alimony Decisions: One spouse claims reduced income potential. We assess their true Earnings Capacity based on age, education, and job market conditions to inform fair alimony awards.
Long-Term Disability Claims: Insurers and courts need to know if an individual is capable of performing any kind of work. We provide independent assessments using clinical and labor data.
Contact Us Today
If you’re dealing with a legal case, claim, or personal matter where income potential or job capacity is in question, don’t leave it to guesswork. Let Stroud Vocational Expert Services provide the clarity and professional support you need.
What is the difference between Earnings Capacity and actual earnings?
Actual earnings are what a person is currently earning. Earnings Capacity is an expert estimation of what they could earn given their skills, experience, and the current labor market, even if they are not currently working.
Why is Earnings Capacity important in legal cases?
In many legal matters, especially injury or divorce cases, a person’s ability to earn income can significantly impact settlement amounts or spousal support. An accurate Earnings Capacity assessment ensures fair outcomes.
How do you determine someone’s Earnings Capacity?
We evaluate work history, education, transferable skills, physical and cognitive abilities, and compare that with labor market conditions and wage data. The process is evidence-based and includes vocational testing, research, and analysis.
Do you offer your services outside Guntersville, AL?
Yes, while we are proudly based in Guntersville, we provide consultations and expert reports across Alabama and nationally, including virtual evaluations when needed.
Can your experts testify in court?
Absolutely. Our vocational experts are experienced in providing expert witness testimony in both state and federal courts. We deliver clear, professional testimony that aligns with the legal process.
What documents should I provide for a vocational evaluation?
Helpful documents include medical records, employment history, educational transcripts, resumes, and any prior vocational assessments or psychological evaluations. We’ll guide you through exactly what’s needed.
How long does the evaluation process take?
Timeframes vary depending on case complexity, but most evaluations and reports are completed within 2 to 4 weeks. Rush services may be available for urgent cases.
Andrew Simon
Founding and Executive Director, Yellow Edge Pty Ltd and Board Member of the International Leadership Association
Marilyn is an outstanding person to work with. As a key person in supporting our work with her previous organization, she was diligent, highly professional, collegiate, efficient and fully supportive. In fact, Marilyn's effort and work was instrumental in ensuring a very successful leadership program and experience.
John F. Kates
SPHR SHRM-SCP
"Marilyn demonstrated the highest level of professionalism, knowledge and patience anyone could expect& work is always high quality& ideas are spot-on solutions to the complex issues&performed at this exceptional level with a caring heart and unlimited enthusiasm."
Woody Sanders
SPHR, SHRM-SCP
In all of my interactions with Marilyn, I have found her to be an enthusiastic team player with lots of energy, ideas and passion for her work. She is a great strategist, but is also a good tactician who can carry out a planned agenda.
Jamison J. Manion
President, Workforce Engagement Solutions, LLC
Marilyn is very personable and her dedication shines through. She truly loves what she does. Her enthusiasm for her work makes her a pleasure to work with. She approaches each project with high energy and a can-do attitude. I'd recommend Marilyn to any organization seeking an engaged, passionate, and motivated team player!