FAQ
A forensic interview is a structured conversation with a child conducted by a trained counselor following a nationally recognized protocol. The interviewer asks non-leading, developmentally appropriate questions about the trauma the child has experienced.
Referrals for forensic interviews are received from law enforcement or the Department of Human Resources.
All forensic interviews are conducted by trained counselors and are digitally recorded. Members of the multi-disciplinary team of investigators remotely observe these interviews.
No, only designated members of the Multi-Disciplinary Team are allowed to observe forensic interviews. Parental presence can compromise the accuracy and completeness of the child’s disclosure.
Tell your child that it’s okay to talk about what they have disclosed and that they will meet with a specialist in talking to children. Use a term like counselor, interviewer, or helper. Encourage them to answer questions truthfully and avoid discussing details of their disclosure beforehand.
Inform your child a day or two before the interview to avoid surprise and minimize anxiety. This timeframe allows them to feel comfortable with the upcoming appointment.
Explain to your child that professionals know the right questions to ask to get the facts. Assure them that they are not in trouble and that the interviewer is there to help.
After the forensic interview, the investigative team will review the recorded session to gather the necessary information for the case. Further steps will be determined based on the interview’s findings.
The interview is observed remotely by members of a multi-disciplinary team of investigators, which may include law enforcement, child protective services, and medical professionals.
Yes, the forensic interview is confidential and is only accessible to the multi-disciplinary team involved in the investigation. The recorded interviews are securely stored to maintain confidentiality.
The length of a forensic interview varies depending on the child and the complexity of the case. On average, the interview lasts about an hour.
No, copies of the forensic interview are not provided to parents or guardians. The recordings are used solely for investigative purposes and are kept confidential.
Reassure your child that the interview is a safe space for them to talk about their experience. Encourage them to be honest and let them know that the interviewer is there to help and support them.