Forensic Interviews Conducted
Forensic Medical Exams
Cases Coordinated by Team Relations
Forensic Services
The Center for Child Protection is the only non-profit in Travis County involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children. Together with law enforcement, the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), Dell Children’s Medical Center and the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, the Center works to ensure that a child’s best interest is at the core of the investigation process.
What is a Forensic Interview?
A forensic interview is a non-leading, developmentally sensitive method of gathering information from children. These recorded statements are conducted by a specially trained, unbiased professional in a legally defensible manner.
Clients are interviewed at the Center in a safe, non-threatening environment. In a separate room, agency partners observe the interview as it is being conducted, which allows for a collaborative team approach, therefore protecting the integrity of the information gathered. This approach allows investigative parties to thoroughly assess child safety issues and possible criminal offenses that may have been committed, all while meeting the emotional needs of the child.
Included Services
Crisis intervention and support
Risk assessment and safety planning
Psychoeducation on the dynamics of abuse and trauma
Education on the criminal and civil process
Linkage to therapeutic and concrete services
Court education, support during court preparation, and accompaniment to trial
Emergency mental health evaluation during forensic, medical, and court appointments
Advocacy and support during medical and sexual assault forensic examinations
Family Advocate Services
Families who go through the forensic interview process also receive support services from a Center for Child Protection Family Advocate or a law enforcement victim services personnel. Support services help ensure families are connected to the individuals working on their case, are aware of available resources that might be helpful to their family and have the information they need to both help their child heal and support them throughout the legal process.
