I came across an article on interviewing adult clients in a child protection case – DCF case.
The article divided the interview into four stages:
1. Introductory stage to establish rapport.
2. Information stage to gather facts and perspectives from the client and to organize the evidence in a logical manner.
3. Theory stage. The lawyer develops his/her theory of the case. This is the opportunity for the lawyer to discuss various options available to the client and the legal consequences of each option.
4. Conclusion stage. The lawyer and the client agree on the next course(s) of action as well as the next steps required of both the client and the lawyer.
Much of the above applies to interviews of clients in any type of litigation. However, there are a few unique features to a DCF interview.
1. Action in a DCF case may be required immediately. Decisions are often time sensitive as in the scenario where DCF is contemplating or has already removed a child.
2. The information to be gathered is often extensive since there are frequently many professionals involved with the family such as social workers, psychologists, pediatricians and therapists.
3. The lawyer must appreciate the client’s heightened emotions (fear, frustration, anger) which are understandably part of a DCF Investigation.
If you wish to read the article it’s here: