Child Protective Services (CPS) often has to take several steps to determine what’s going on when a report is made regarding the mistreatment of a child. In some cases, this can include making a home visit to see the conditions of the home. It may also include speaking to people who are part of the case or who know the family. In some cases, CPS may want to interview the child.
When CPS asks to interview a child, the parents may feel worried or unsure about how to proceed. There’s not an easy answer to these situations because CPS procedures vary based on the location and the facts of the report.
1: Interviews can happen in a variety of locations
Interviews with children don’t only happen in the home. They can also occur at school, a CPS office or a variety of other locations. Ideally, the interview will take place somewhere that’s calm to help avoid stress on the child.
2: Interviews can happen in a variety of ways
Some CPS interviews occur with parental permission, but that’s not always how it happens. CPS can seek court involvement if there’s a reason to believe that the child’s safety or the investigation may be affected if they give notice about the interview. In some cases, CPS rules may allow certain interviews without advance parental permission.
3: Interviews may involve a support person
Some interviews with children can include a support person for the child. This typically depends on the child’s age, maturity, emotional state and disability needs. The child’s ability to communicate with the interviewer is also a factor, particularly if there’s a language barrier.
CPS investigations can be stressful, particularly for parents who don’t know what to expect. It may be beneficial to work with someone familiar with these investigations so that they can assist you throughout the process.