What to Expect at a Forensic Interview

A forensic interview gives your child a safe, supportive place to talk with someone who is specially trained to listen to children. The interviewer will spend time helping your child feel comfortable and will use developmentally appropriate, non-leading questions that allow your child to share what they remember in their own words and at their own pace.

Most importantly, your child does not have to know what to say or how to say it. Our interviewer will meet your child where they are, listen with care, and make sure they know they are heard and supported.

Let your child know that they will be meeting with someone at Prescott House whose job is to listen to and talk with children. Reassure them that it is okay to talk with the interviewer about anything they want to share 

Before the interview, try not to ask your child additional questions or have them repeat what they have already shared. There is no need to practice or prepare what they will say. Simply let them know that the interviewer is there to listen and that they can use their own words to talk about what happened.

The most helpful thing you can do is reassure your child that you support them and that they can talk openly and honestly with the interviewer.

Parents and caregivers do not sit in or observe the forensic interview. Your child will meet privately with the forensic interviewer while members of the multidisciplinary team observe from a separate room.

This gives children the space to talk freely, in their own words, without worrying about how someone they love might react. While your child is being interviewed, a Prescott House advocate will be available to support you and answer questions about the process.

Give your child enough notice so the visit does not feel like a surprise, but not so much time that they may become worried or anxious. For most children, telling them a day or two before the appointment provides enough time to feel prepared without creating unnecessary worry.

Let your child know that you are always there to listen, but the interviewer is specially trained to talk with children and needs to hear from them in their own words. Reassure your child that the interviewer is there to listen and help.

Please plan to arrive a few minutes before your scheduled appointment. When you arrive, a member of the Prescott House team will welcome you, help you get settled, and explain what to expect during your visit.

If your child is sick or you are unable to keep your appointment, please contact the law enforcement officer or DHR worker who scheduled the forensic interview.

Prescott House is located at 1730 14th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35205. Our parking lot is located to the left of the building.

If you have questions before your visit, our team is here to help.

We are located at 1730 14th Ave. S, Birmingham, AL 35205.