Forensic Interviews
A forensic interview is a neutral, fact-finding interaction between a child and a specially trained forensic interviewer in response to allegations of abuse or neglect. Forensic interviews are conducted at the request of law enforcement and/or Child Protective Services (CPS) after a report of suspected abuse has been made.
The Purpose of a Forensic Interview
01
Gather Information
Forensic interviews are used to obtain critical information from the child. The interview is observed by law enforcement and CPS. It is not used in lieu of a child's testimony if the case goes to trial. Instead, it is a launching point for a civil or criminal investigation.
03
Assess Needs
Information gathered during a forensic interview can determine the need for a medical evaluation or psychological care.
02
Assess Safety
Forensic interviewers assess for all types of safety risks, ensuring the child is safe in their home or anywhere else they regularly visit.
04
Reduce Trauma
Forensic interviewers are trained to ask children questions that won't retraumatize them or tarnish their statement. Our interviewers are trained in a number of interviewing protocols to best meet the needs of the child and the investigation.
How Forensic Interviews Work
In the interview room, the child has a non-leading, fact-finding conversation with a trained professional. Meanwhile, in another room, investigators with law enforcement and Child Protective Services record and watch the interview via a closed-circuit television.