Forensic Interviews

A forensic interview is a recorded conversation designed to elicit a child’s unique information when there are concerns of possible abuse or when the child has witnessed violence against another person. 

Forensic interviews are conducted by compassionate, highly educated and experienced Forensic Interviewers who are specially trained in forensic interviewing techniques and have a solid understanding of child development.

The primary aim of forensic services is to aid in ensuring the safety of the individual child as well as other children in the community. Forensic services are provided in a safe and child-friendly environment.

Members of the multidisciplinary team (law enforcement and child abuse investigators) and CPC staff may observe the interview from another room. The interview is digitally recorded and made available to child abuse investigators and law enforcement professionals thus reducing the number of times children have to recount the abuse. Digitally recording the interviews also preserves the child's statement for legal purposes. The recorded interview may be used in court as evidence; however, it does not replace the child's testimony.

These practices ensure comprehensive and quality interviews.