What guidelines preserve admissibility of evidence in forensic interviewing of children?

• A. Never record the interview.
• B. Interview the child only in the presence of caregivers.
• C. Ask leading questions to obtain information.
• D. Use standardized protocols, avoid leading questions, interview separately from caregivers, audio/video record when possible, and document disclosures precisely.

Answer: (D)

Forensic interviewing of children hinges on minimizing suggests and keeping a reliable, verifiable account of what the child says. Using standardized protocols provides a structured, non-suggestive framework that guides interviewers through age-appropriate questions and pacing, reducing the chance that the child’s memory or report is influenced by the interviewer. Avoiding leading questions is crucial because prompts or biased phrasing can shape how a child responds, making statements less credible in court. Interviewing the child separately from caregivers helps prevent coaching or influence from adults, ensuring the testimony reflects the child’s own words and perceptions. Audio or video recording when possible creates a complete, objective record that can be reviewed by others, supports the integrity of the interview, and helps with later authentication and cross-examination. Documenting disclosures precisely establishes a clear, contemporaneous account of what the child disclosed, when, and under what circumstances, which is essential for tracing the interview’s history and supporting admissibility.

In contrast, not recording the interview eliminates a verifiable record; interviewing in the presence of caregivers risks coaching and contamination; and asking leading questions directly undermines reliability and admissibility.