Forensic Interviewing
Forensic Interviews typically involve a child speaking one on one with a trained
Forensic Interviewer while MDT members observe via closed-circuit monitors
A forensic interview is a fact-finding conversation conducted by a specially-trained Forensic Interviewer. It’s designed to provide a child the opportunity to talk about the reason for their visit to the CAC. The Interviewer strives to make the child feel as comfortable as possible while gathering information to determine what may have occurred. Questions are asked in a non-leading manner at a pace that is comfortable and age-appropriate for the child.
The purpose of a forensic interview is to gather information in an age-appropriate manner from a child when abuse is suspected. It’s critical that children are interviewed in a neutral, child-friendly atmosphere such as a CAC setting. In this way, we can minimize the number of times a child has to be interviewed, as well as the number of people who directly interview them.
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS/CAREGIVERS
Children and families can sometimes feel anxious before visiting the CAC for their interview. Knowing what to expect is helpful. If your child is scheduled for a forensic interview and you haven’t had a chance to talk to our Advocate, please call the office and ask for Whitney. She will provide you with answers to your questions so you and your child will be at ease when you come to the CAC. Whitney can be reached at 816-232-1744 or you can email her here.
Here is a short story you can read to the child in your care who is scheduled for a forensic interview in our office. It explains a little bit about what to expect, what our rooms looks like and who they might meet when they come to the CAC!
