NCJ Number
111470
Journal
Public Welfare Volume: 46 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter 1988) Pages: 5-13
Date Published
1988
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article examines legal issues and practices for forensic caseworkers working with victim-witnesses in child sexual abuse cases.
Abstract
Because children often are the sole witnesses in such cases, their testimony is vital to holding offenders accountable. Current laws emphasize the importance of the child's testimony. Forty-nine States allow courts to rely solely on victim testimony in prosecuting cases, more than half presume that child sexual abuse victims are competent to testify, and many States have introduced procedural reforms to reduce the trauma of the trial for the victim. Psychological research has shown that children generally are truthful and credible witnesses in sexual abuse matters. Caseworkers can assist in enhancing the child's credibility by eliciting earnest and clear disclosures, by assisting legal counsel in framing clear and age-appropriate questions, and by preparing the child for upcoming court procedures and the defendant's presence in the courtroom. A child who shows intelligence, confidence, and consistency is more likely to be viewed as credible by jurors. In addition, the use of expert witnesses, the caseworker's testimony as a lay witness, and the introduction of corroborating witnesses and evidence can enhance the child's credibility and strengthen the case.