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When child abuse is suspected, it is important to determine whether or not the abuse has occurred. This requires an interview of the child.
Our specially trained forensic interviewers provide child-friendly interview. The forensic interviewer asks nonleading, open ended and developmentally appropriate questions. The interview involves the child speaking with one forensic interviewer while team members observe via closed circuit TV in an adjacent room.
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A forensic interview at The Children’s Advocacy Center of Monroe County:
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Minimizes the number of times, and people to whom, the child has to tell their story.
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Allows caregivers to meet with investigators to ask questions and share concerns, after the interview.
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After the interview, allows caregivers to meet with investigators to ask questions and share concerns.
What is a Forensic Interview?
Tips for Caregivers
Our system is responsible for protecting children and holding offenders accountable for their actions. The more information and cooperation you are able to provide to the team, the better.
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Here are some basic tips on how to approach the forensic interview:
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Be calm and reassuring to your child. Let your child know that it is okay to tell the truth, but do not coach your child on what to say. It is important for the story to be told in your child’s words and in his or her own time.
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When you are asked for information, try to provide as many facts and details as you can. If you don’t know the answer to a question, do not try to guess. It is much better to say, “I don’t know.”
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Cases are built on the four W’s: who, what, when and where. Investigators may ask personal questions about your life. They ask personal questions, because any information that you share with them may help the investigation.