We've listed some steps below to help you understand what happens at the CAC.

Someone from DHHS or law enforcement refers a child to the CAC. Staff at the CAC schedules an interview. The CAC starts helping the family by answering questions and providing information about the interview.

On the day of the interview, the Family Advocate meets with the child and their parent or caregiver at the CAC. While the caregiver meets with the interview team, the child spends time with the Family Advocate.

Then the child goes into another room to be interviewed. The child is interviewed by one member of the team called a Forensic Interviewer. The other members of the team watch the interview over closed circuit video from another room. The caregiver meets with the Family Advocate to talk about anything the family needs, like other services or help.

When the interview is done, the caregiver meets with the interview team again to talk about what is next. The child spends time with the Family Advocate.

The CAC staff call the caregiver two times after the interview: one week after the family's visit and then again one month later. This is to make sure that the child and caregiver get the services they need.

Questions you may have

Will this be the last time my child has to talk to someone about what happened?
We do what we can to make sure your child doesn't have to talk about what happened more than they need to. Sometimes children have to be interviewed again at the CAC or in follow up interviews with DHHS or law enforcement. 
 
Can the DVD be used instead of my child testifying in court?
No. The DVD is evidence. It does not take the place of your child’s testimony if your child is needed during a trial.
 
What happens to the DVD?
The DVD is evidence. It goes with the law enforcement and/or DHHS investigators. The evidence is held to the highest level of confidentiality (it will only be seen by people who need to see it). We do not keep a copy.

Will the person who abused my child see the video?
The DVD may be viewed by the alleged offender and their lawyer during the investigation. They will not get a copy of it.
 
Will the forensic interviewer introduce words or things to my child that they don’t know about?
No. The forensic interview is led by your child. The interviewer will only use words your child uses.
 
Can I sit with my child or see the interview?
No. It is our policy that family members cannot be in the room during the interview or see the interview.
 
Will I know what my child talked about in the interview?
Yes. Our team will share information with you to help you keep your child safe. They may not be able to share everything right after the interview because sharing might be a risk to the investigation.
 
What is the medical follow up exam?
The exam is child-friendly and sometimes part the investigation. The exams are done by child abuse evaluation experts at the Spurwink Child Abuse Program. The exam does not hurt and is an external exam only. The exam is very child-friendly. You can be in the room for the entire exam.