During the interview, your child will speak with a
person trained to talk with kids about abuse. It is a better
alternative to taking a child to a police station or multiple
offices for repeated interviews. The forensic interview is
child-friendly and composed of non-leading questions.
The interviews are observed in a separate room by
representatives from law enforcement and/or Child Protective
Services (CPS) and are recorded on a DVD.
What should I tell my child
about the interview?
Tell your child he/she is going to a safe place to
talk and that he/she should answer the questions truthfully and
honestly. Please do not tell your child what he/she should say or
promise the child anything in exchange for talking or not talking.
Who will talk to me after the
interview?
After the interview, you will meet with your CPS
caseworker and law enforcement officer to discuss what will happen
next in the investigation.
How can I help my child after
the interview?
Let your child tell you about the interview when
he/she feels ready, rather than asking him/her about it right away.
This can be a hard time for you and your child,
and your child may be experiencing feelings that are hard for
him/her to understand. The best thing you can do is to support
his/her feelings and to be available if he/she needs to talk.
Does this interview mean that
my child won't have to testify in court?
No. Although it is too early to know what will
happen at this point, the child's interview does not replace court
testimony if it is needed.
Will the WCCAC give me a
copy of the DVD?
No. DVDs of forensic interviews become the
property of Child Protective Services and law enforcement following
the interview.
How can I get counseling for my
child and/or family?
A representative from WCCAC can connect you
with a counselor at the Center or refer you to a qualified
therapist.
Will my child get a medical
exam?
In certain cases, the law enforcement officer may
request a medical exam. Non-emergency exams may be scheduled at our
Center by law enforcement. These exams are performed by a certified
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). If sexual abuse is suspected
to have occurred within the past 96 hours, an exam will be scheduled
at a local hospital.
What is Crime Victims'
Compensation?
Crime Victims' Compensation (CVC) is a program of
the Attorney General of Texas. CVC can provide financial assistance
to victims of crime and their family members. Expenses covered may
include counseling, medical expenses, or one-time relocation costs.
A WCCAC or victims' services representative can provide a CVC
application and assist you in filling it out.
Who Should I Call?
(See
Resources for more information.)
