Forensic Interviews
Forensic Interviews are structured conversations by a trained interviewer with a child or developmentally disabled adult. They uncover details about events that the person might have experienced or witnessed to ensure they get the help they need ― including social and mental health services, substance abuse treatment, personal advocacy and case management.
The program may be able to cover up to $200 per victim, per victimization, when funding is available.
TO QUALIFY
All of the following criteria must be met:
- The crime occurred in Georgia on or after July 1, 2014.
- The person being interviewed is less than 18 years of age or a developmentally disabled adult.
- The interview is conducted in the context of a multidisciplinary and diagnostic team, or in a specialized setting such as a Child Advocacy Center.
- The interviewer has specialized training to conduct forensic interviews appropriate to the developmental age and abilities of children, or the developmental, cognitive, and physical or communication disabilities presented by adults.
TO APPLY
Complete and submit a Complete Application Packet, which includes:
- A Forensic Interview Application for Payment
- A Forensic Interview Referral Document
- A Forensic Interview Itemized Bill
The Agency Director must submit a Forensic Interviewer Funding Certification Document for any forensic interviewer employed by their Agency/Organization before payment can be disbursed. This certification will be required annually to be considered for continued payments. Additional requirements and information can be found on the program application.
Please Note: Beginning February 1, 2019 the Program will no longer mail Forensic Interview award letters. Detailed Status information may be viewed on the Victims Comp Portal. If you are not registered for the Victims Comp Portal, please click here to register for access. If you have any questions, please contact us at 404-657-2222.
TO FURTHER ASSIST A VICTIM
Please encourage the victim’s custodian/legal guardian to contact us as the victim may also be eligible for the following Crime Victims Compensation Program benefits. Our Program Advocates are available to help with the application process.
Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program Benefit Categories:
- Medical Expenses: up to $15,000
- Funeral Expenses: up to $6,000
- Counseling Expenses: up to $3,000
- Economic Support Expenses: up to $10,000
- Crime Scene Sanitization: up to $1,500