NCJ Number
208906
Journal
Children, Families, and the Courts: Ohio Bulletin Volume: 1 Issue: 4 Dated: Winter 2004 Pages: 1-18
Date Published
2004
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This report describes the features and benefits of Ohio's children's advocacy centers.
Abstract
The goal of a center is to coordinate investigations of child abuse in a "one-stop," child-friendly location specifically designed to promote sound investigations and reduce subsequent trauma for the children involved. State and local authorities have cooperated to achieve a number of key objectives through the centers. One objective achieved is the development and implementation of forensic interview training programs designed to promote state-of-the-art practices throughout the State. Another objective is the provision of exceptional forensic medical-exam resources and training programs for medical professionals. Further, the centers have developed multidisciplinary teams that can serve multiple jurisdictions. Strong support for advocacy centers has emerged from prosecutors and other professionals who handle cases of child maltreatment. There are a variety of advocacy center models that can be tailored to various community needs; however, the standards promulgated by the State network reflect national standards for children's advocacy centers. Key challenges remaining for Ohio's child maltreatment investigative practices are funding, the provision of access to an advocacy center for all child victims in the State, and continuing to improve forensic interview training skills. 21 notes