What do I tell my child to prepare them for the appointment?
It is best practice not to question your child or talk to them about the allegations prior to the appointment, as to not taint their statement or bias it in any way. If your child asks specific questions, it is okay to answer them, but just be mindful that this is a difficult time for your child. Also, though our team will be at the center and may be available to meet with the caregiver after the interview, it is best not to broadcast that to the child, as it may unnecessarily scare or worry them. Reassure your child that the Forensic Interviewers and other staff at Norma's House are here to help them and that it is okay with you that they speak with us.
Can I be in the interview/observation room while my child is interviewed?
No, because our goal, (based on best practices,) is to provide a neutral setting for the child. This means that the child will be talking with a forensic interviewer alone in order to enable the child to talk in their authentic words about their reasons for being at the center. This is also to ensure that the child's interview (and the authenticity of your own possible statements), are legally defensible in court. We want to help the child feel empowered about whatever it is they are here to talk about, without the possibility of feeling influenced in any way.
Can I watch or receive a copy of the recording?
The recording is kept secured as evidence for the duration of the investigation.
Can we bring other friends or family members with us to the appointment for support?
While we want our families to feel supported at their appointment, we are limited with space and are also required to maintain a safe, secure and neutral setting for the families we serve. Please be mindful of the amount of people accompanying you to the appointment.
Does the interview take the place of a courtroom testimony?
No. The interview is conducted in order for your child's testimony to be used for investigative purposes but does not take the place of the child possibly having to testify in court. Should your child's case go to court, there are therapy and victim's services available to empower and prepare your child for that experience if it is necessary that they testify.
How long will the appointment take?
Each child is different so appointment times do vary. Before beginning the interview, the interviewer will spend a few minutes with the caregiver and child to explain our process. Following the interview, members of the team may be available to meet privately with the caregiver for follow-up. We recommend preparing yourself and your family to be at our center for an hour or longer, especially if there are multiple children being interviewed.
Will law enforcement be talking with my child at Norma's House?
The interview of the child is conducted by a specially-trained forensic interviewer. It is our goal that while a child is at our center, they will not have to speak with law enforcement or CPS, as we are a neutral facility. However, every case is unique, and while we do have procedures in place, we cannot speak to the individual needs of the investigative agencies for each case.
Will I be able to meet with CPS or law enforcement involved in my child's case at Norma's House?
While every case is different., typically a member of the team will be available to meet with your privately after your child's interview to answer your questions, speak with you about your child's statement, and possibly gather further information from protective caregivers. If, for some reason, the agency involved in your case is unable to meet with you after the interview, they will be in contact with you regarding outcomes and next steps as soon as they are able.
