NCJ Number
101366
Journal
Criminal Justice Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1986) Pages: 32-35,45
Date Published
1986
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The sensitive and just investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases requires the use of multidisciplinary teams, expedited court proceedings, procedural reforms making it less stressful for child victims to tell their stories, and special legislation that addresses the problems in child abuse cases.
Abstract
Multidisciplinary teams can conduct more thorough investigations of child abuse cases and eliminate unnecessary multiple interviews of child victims. Also, the team facilitates wise decisionmaking regarding the most appropriate handling of the case. A speedy trial minimizes the length of time a child is exposed to stressful proceedings. Procedures should be revised to permit the evaluation of a child's competency case by case, and leading questions should be permitted in the direct examination of a child witness, subject to the court's direction and control. A supportive person should be accessible to the child witness during testimony. Anatomical dolls and drawings can assist the child in testifying. The use of closed circuit television, a one-way mirror, hearsay evidence, and videotaped depositions are recommended. Nonessential persons should be excluded from the courtroom at the request of the child witnesses or their representatives, and the media should be encouraged to act responsibly in reporting child abuse cases, particularly regarding the victim's identity.