A forensic interview is an investigative interview to determine the likelihood of child abuse and assess the current safety and mental health concerns of the child. DCAC provides forensic interviews at the request and referral of DSS, law enforcement, and the Solicitor’s office during the investigation of child maltreatment.
– – –
Forensic interviews are the first steps in an investigation of child maltreatment. Children are referred for a Forensic interview by law enforcement or the Department of Social Services (DSS).
FORENSIC INTERVIEW FAQs
Click on a question below for the answer. Please review these before contacting us.
If you have additional questions, please contact us.
What is a Forensic Interview (FI) and what is the purpose?
FIs are:
- A process where a child is given the opportunity to make a statement about what they have experienced in a safe, supportive environment
- Children are questioned in a developmentally appropriate, legally sound manner by a trained professional
- FIs are child-led
- No child is forced to participate in a FI
The purpose of an FI is:
- To obtain information from a child that may be helpful in criminal and child protection services investigations
- To assess the safety of the child’s living arrangements
- To assess the need for further medical or therapeutic services
- To limit the number of times the child is asked to disclose their abuse
How should I prepare my child for their interview?
Make your child aware of what to expect to make them more comfortable and relaxed about the interview. It is helpful for the child to make them aware that someone wants to talk to them about what they have experienced. It is critical that your child knows that you support them and that they should tell the truth. Ensure your child the person they will be talking with is safe and that they should be honest. It is also important that you do not rehearse with your child what to say and what not to say.
Can I join my child in their interview?
To protect the integrity of the investigation, only professional staff members of the multi-disciplinary team may observe the interview. It is also for this reason that it is imperative for the interviewer to speak with your child alone. If your child has experienced abuse or maltreatment, or if they have witnessed abuse or maltreatment, it may be difficult for them to talk about what happened to them if you are present.
How long will the interview last?
All forensic interviews are child-led, so the length of the interview is determined by your child and what they may want to share with the interviewer. Most interviews take approximately 20-60 minutes, though some do last longer. During the interview, if your child would like a break or does not want to continue, the interviewer will pause or stop the interview accordingly.
Why will my child’s interview be recorded?
All of the forensic interviews are audio and video recorded to reduce the number of times children have to tell their story. The interviewer will make your child aware of the camera and microphone. The recording of the interview is only shared with professionals who need to watch the interview to do their jobs.
Who are Family Advocates and what do they do?
Before and during your child’s interview, you will be greeted by an advocate that can answer your questions and offer support during your child’s interview. This staff member will be glad to listen and provide services to your concerns to support you and your family throughout this process.
Will I be told what my child says in their interview?
Details from the interview must remain private until or unless law enforcement or DSS investigators share the information with you. The purpose of this is for your child’s safety and to protect the integrity of the investigation. Your child can choose to share information about their interview, but we recommend that you do not ask questions or seek information after they have completed their interview.
What should I do if I have questions about the investigation?
All questions regarding the investigation must be directed to law enforcement or the Department of Social Services. DCAC staff cannot provide any details regarding what was shared during the process or findings.
What support is available for me?
Professional, free, and evidenced-based counseling services are available for children, with limited services also to non-offending caregivers. If you are interested in these services, an advocate can refer you to a counselor here or give you a referral to an off-site agency, as appropriate. If your child is not ready for counseling, our therapy services will be available when your child is ready.
