Common Questions About Forensic Interviews
What should I tell my child about the forensic interview process?
You can tell your child that they are going to the Child Advocacy Center. You could say, “This is a place where kids can talk with adults about what happened to them. The adults at the Child Advocacy Center talk with lots of kids about what happens to them. The adults want to make sure that kids are safe. You can tell them the truth.”
If your child wants to talk about what happened before the interview, the best thing you can do is listen and be supportive.
Do not question your child before the interview.
What should I expect when I bring my child to be interviewed?
When you and your child arrive, you will be greeted by a staff person at the CACFL and shown to the waiting room.
The waiting room has lots of activities for children including books, games, coloring materials, and a TV.
You may meet the investigative team of professionals who are working on your child’s case: this may include child protective services, law enforcement, prosecution, and others.
If you brought other children with you, you and the other children will stay in the waiting room during the forensic interview.
Where will be child be interviewed?
The Child Advocacy Center of the Finger Lakes provides separate interview rooms designed to make children of all ages feel comfortable.
The interview room has a closed-circuit camera so that the investigative team can observe the interview, and the interview is recorded.
Who will talk
to my child?
Your child will talk with a Forensic Interviewer; a professional who has been specially trained in talking with children about allegations of abuse.
The interviewer will help your child to be as comfortable as possible; they will ask your child questions that are not leading or threatening.
The interview will move at the pace that your child would like and your child can take breaks when they need to. The interviewer never forces the child to talk.
No, only the professionals who are working on the investigation may observe the interview or be in the interview room. This is done to ensure a neutral setting for your child and the investigation, and to reduce any stress your child might feel.
You will have an opportunity to speak with the investigative team before and after the interview.
Can I stay in the room while my child is being interviewed?
If your child wants to talk about what happened in the interview, the best thing you can do is listen and be supportive.
Do not question your child about the interview.
Assure your child they were very brave for talking and tell them you love them and support them, no matter what.
What should I
say to my child after the forensic interview?
To the extent they are able, the investigation team will tell you in general terms about the results of the interview and the current status of the investigation.