How to Understand the DCF Involvement with a SAIN Interview

How to Understand the DCF Involvement with a SAIN Interview

SAIN Interview

When an allegation of sexual abuse is screened in by The Department of Children and Families (DCF) for investigation, they must report the sexual allegations to the District Attorney’s (DA) Office.

When sexual abuse occurs, the victim may get interviewed numerous times and be forced to repeatedly relive the trauma. The Sexual Abuse Intervention Network (SAIN) intends to reduce the number of interviews the child is faced with. The SAIN eliminates multiple separate interviews. The team members involved in a SAIN interview include.DCF investigation process 

  1. Assistant District AttorneyHe/She will discuss the possibility of prosecution with you.
    1. SAIN CoordinatorHe/She helps to coordinate the team interview.
  2. Forensic InterviewerHe/She is specially trained to conduct the interview of a child.
  3. Family Service Advocate/She works to meet the needs of the child victim and their family during the SAIN process and/or any court proceedings.
  4. Law EnforcementHe/She works to carry out the criminal investigation, if any (i.e. making arrests).
  5. The Department of Children and Families (DCF)He/She will complete an investigation to determine if a child is being abused sexually or physically and/or being neglected.

A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (Pediatric SANE) and/or a mental health consultant can occasionally be present during the interview. During a SAIN interview, the forensic interviewer conducts the interview of the child behind a one-way mirror room. 

The interviewer of the child will often have an ear piece in his/her ear to hear questions from the team observing the interview from behind the one-way mirror. The team can see into the room with the interviewer and the child, but the interviewer and the child cannot see out of the room hence the one-way mirror. Parents/guardians are NOT allowed to be present in the room or watch the SAIN interview. DCF appeal process Following the interview, team members meet to discuss the next steps, including the investigation and any necessary medical follow-up.

The child and family are provided with victim services and support during this challenging time. If you are concerned about your rights during a DCF investigation or want to understand the DCF appeal process, it’s essential to seek proper guidance.  Additionally, DCF policies and procedures play a crucial role in the entire DCF investigation process, so understanding them is vital for parents. For more information on DCF policies and procedures, you can visit the [DCP’s official website](insert link here) for detailed guidance.

Need Help with a SAIN Interview?  Call Attorney Seaver or Request Online A Consultation

DISCLAIMER

You find yourself in this situation, it’s advisable to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney, like those at the Law Office of Kevin Seaver, who can advocate for your rights and guide you through the complex process of a DCF investigation.

Remember that the ultimate goal of DCF is to ensure the safety and well-being of children while supporting families in crisis.

Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers.

Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from the attorney based on personal circumstances. Thank you.

Kevin Patrick Seaver is a Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer who represents parents against false child abuse allegations.

Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer Kevin Seaver has been successfully fighting false child abuse allegations since 1991.

One thought on “How to Understand the DCF Involvement with a SAIN Interview

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    Brittney Willis Bakari Edwards says:

    My husband and I Have court May 09 2023 hearing of our Parental rights for my daughters..I really need to speak with someone pertaining the custody of our Babies…..We both been to jail drod chargers for both of us due to no evidence.we still don’t have our girls….It’s more please give me a call

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