What is Forensic Interviewing?

Forensic interviews provide a safe and child-friendly environment for children and teens to tell their story when they are suspected victims of abuse or witnesses of violence. The forensic interview is held in a one-on-one setting with a highly trained forensic interviewer, and is conducted in a neutral, non-leading way.

While the forensic interviewer is talking with the child, other multidisciplinary team members involved in the investigative process (e.g. law enforcement, child protective services) will view the interview in a separate room. By having investigative personnel view the interview while it is happening, we can ensure the child is not interviewed over and over again and eliminate possible re-traumatization the child may experience.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT OUR FORENSIC INTERVIEWERS

Forensic interviews are the foundation of a Child Advocacy Center. As an accredited organization with the Nation Children’s Alliance, we participate in an in depth review process that ensures we utilize proper forensic interviewing procedures, protocols, and policies. Our Forensic Interviewers have completed specialized trainings in order to work with suspected child victims of crime. This is vital because for many children, the forensic interview process may be the first step towards healing. How they are treated in the initial forensic interview may have a significant impact on their ability to respond to, and understand the intervention process and/or criminal justice system.