Forensic Interviews
A forensic interview is a specialized conversation between a child and a trained forensic interviewer in a safe, child-friendly environment. Our interviewers are professionals skilled in speaking with children of all ages in a developmentally appropriate, non-confrontational way. These interviews are conducted using nationally recognized protocols and are legally defensible in court.
Our Goals
- Primary Goal: To help a child share as much information as they can about their experience, in their own words and at their own pace.
- Secondary Goal: To reduce how many times a child has to talk about their experience during an investigation, protecting them from unnecessary stress or repeated questioning by multiple professionals.
What to Expect During a Visit
When children come to New Hope for a forensic interview, they’re welcomed into a child-friendly space designed to help them feel comfortable and supported. Our Child & Family Advocates are onsite to support both the child and the non-offending caregivers throughout the entire process.
Multi-Disciplinary Team Involvement
Members of the Multi-Disciplinary Team observe the interview live from a private room. This collaborative approach brings together law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical professionals, and child advocacy center staff to ensure the child’s needs are understood and the investigation is coordinated effectively.
Recording the Interview
The entire interview is recorded to accurately capture the child’s words and ensure the information can be reviewed as needed throughout the investigation and court process.
As soon as I came to New Hope, there was a sense of comfort. There’s such an ease to know that you can come somewhere and share your story and to know that you’re safe and comfortable, and you can trust the people you’re telling your story to.
-Former New Hope Client
