What to Expect2

The Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) is a child-friendly space that coordinates the investigation, treatment, and prosecution of child abuse cases. CACs are designed to minimize the impact of child abuse on children and their families, and to hold offenders accountable.

The process begins with a disclosure of suspected abuse. A disclosure refers to a situation where a child or another person reports or reveals that a child has been subjected to abuse. This could include physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect. The disclosure might come directly from the child, a family member, a friend, a teacher, or another individual who becomes aware of the abuse. It is important to understand that a disclosure is not merely the child "telling" someone about their experience.

Furthermore, disclosures are often not direct statements of harm. They could also be indirect, such as a child showing signs or behaviors that suggest abuse, prompting an adult to inquire. Someone else, such as a friend, teacher, or relative, might report concerns about the child's well-being.

Regardless of how the disclosure is made, it is important for the person receiving it to take the matter seriously and follow appropriate legal and ethical procedures to ensure the child's safety and well-being. A disclosure of child abuse will trigger an investigation by the District Attorney's office and (if the alleged abuser is also a caretaker of the child) the Department of Children and Families. If the investigation determines that the allegation is credible, the case will be referred to the CAC and an appointment for a forensic interview will be set.