Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I expect when I bring my child to a Child Advocacy Center?
Prior to coming in, you will be contacted by the CAC to collect basic intake information and to schedule a time that works best for your family.
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When you arrive, you will be greeted by a CAC staff member and invited to a waiting area where toys, books, and snacks are available for you and your child's comfort.
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A caseworker and/or law enforcement investigator will meet with you before your child is taken back to a child-friendly room to be interviewed.
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An advocate will provide a packet of information explaining the criminal justice process, as well as community resources and referrals that are available to your child and/or you.
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After the interview, the investigator and/or caseworker will provide you with more information regarding next steps. A medical evaluation and mental health assessment may be recommended and scheduled.
Will I be able to sit in the room with my child while they are being interviewed?
No, parents and/or caregivers may not sit in the room while a child is being forensically interviewed.
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Often, children may feel uncomfortable to disclose when a parent or caregiver is present because they may feel embarrassed, be concerned about consequences, or want to avoid causing a caregiver any pain. Parents may also have difficulties containing their emotions or may interfere with the interview process. Additionally, any witness to the interview may be asked to testify in court.​
What happens if my child does not disclose abuse during the interview?
This can happen. Sometimes, a child might not disclose abuse because truly, nothing happened. However, sometimes a child does not disclose abuse that did happen; this happens for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, a caseworker or investigator will have challenges continuing the case and may choose to close it at the present moment.​
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If a parent or caregiver continues to have concerns that a child has been victimized, or if a child is behaving in a way that may be indicative of abuse, it is critical to get a child into mental health treatment, preferably with a therapist trained in trauma treatment. Therapy can help a child feel more comfortable, and when they are ready to disclose, they can return to the CAC to do so.
What happens after my child is interviewed at the CAC?
After a visit to the CAC, there will be a few key next steps.
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Law enforcement or the Department of Human Services will continue to conduct their investigations. They should inform caregivers of the next steps in the investigation after the forensic interview.
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If the child is in imminent danger of being revictimized, or if the perpetrator will be present in the home, a caseworker will help you set up a safety plan to protect the child.
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Prosecutors will decide if they can file charges in a case. If charges are filed, the case will continue through the court system.
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A victim advocate from the CAC will be follow up with you regularly to ensure your questions are answered, your needs are met, and your child is doing well.
How much will this process cost?
CAC services are provided at no cost to the family.
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CACs will use a variety of resources to ensure they can provide you and your child with appropriate services, referrals, and treatment at no cost. This may include working with a family to bill health insurance for mental health treatment, or it can include helping a family claim Crime Victims Compensation (CVC).