Forensic interview for my 7-year-old... what should I know?

Education Law Forum
1

My 7-year-old son has been scheduled for an interview with a forensic interviewer and a detective after I reported his allegations of repeated sexual assaults by a classmate at school last year. I’m wondering if this means there’s already an open case? Will I also be interviewed? What should I prepare or keep in mind for the interview day?

Additionally, the school district has scheduled their own interview a week later, but I’m uncomfortable with them conducting their own investigation due to potential conflicts of interest. Should I let my son participate in their interview, or is it enough that law enforcement is already handling the case?

2

Yes, if law enforcement is involved, it usually means there’s an open case. Are they keeping you updated on the process?

3

Floyd said:
Yes, if law enforcement is involved, it usually means there’s an open case. Are they keeping you updated on the process?

So far, they’ve just scheduled the interview. I’m not sure what happens next after that.

4

Floyd said:
Yes, if law enforcement is involved, it usually means there’s an open case. Are they keeping you updated on the process?

The next steps depend on what they learn from the interview. They should keep you informed as the investigation progresses.

5

It’s totally fair to be uncomfortable with the school conducting their own interview. Can you decline it?

6

Pace said:
It’s totally fair to be uncomfortable with the school conducting their own interview. Can you decline it?

I’m thinking about saying no, especially since law enforcement is already handling it. I don’t want to confuse my son with multiple interviews.

7

Pace said:
It’s totally fair to be uncomfortable with the school conducting their own interview. Can you decline it?

You can let the school know you prefer law enforcement to handle the investigation to avoid conflicts of interest.

8

For the forensic interview, keep your son calm and let the professionals do their work. Have you spoken to them about what to expect?

9

Lex said:
For the forensic interview, keep your son calm and let the professionals do their work. Have you spoken to them about what to expect?

Not yet. I was planning to call and ask how to prepare him. I don’t want to say or do the wrong thing.

10

Lex said:
For the forensic interview, keep your son calm and let the professionals do their work. Have you spoken to them about what to expect?

That’s a good idea. They’ll guide you on what to tell him so he’s comfortable and prepared.

11

Do you know if you’ll be interviewed too? Sometimes they want to hear from parents as part of the process.

12

Wylie said:
Do you know if you’ll be interviewed too? Sometimes they want to hear from parents as part of the process.

I’m not sure. No one has mentioned it yet, but I’m happy to share anything they need.

13

Wylie said:
Do you know if you’ll be interviewed too? Sometimes they want to hear from parents as part of the process.

Be ready to share details if they ask. They might want your perspective on how your son has been affected.

14

Are you getting any support for your son, like counseling? These situations can be hard for kids emotionally.

15

Teo said:
Are you getting any support for your son, like counseling? These situations can be hard for kids emotionally.

We haven’t started counseling yet, but I’m looking into options. I want him to have all the support he needs.

16

Teo said:
Are you getting any support for your son, like counseling? These situations can be hard for kids emotionally.

That’s great. A counselor can also help him feel safe and prepared for these interviews.