Studio Interview for Minors in Rijswijk
A studio interview for minors is a child-friendly interviewing method for children and young people under 18 in criminal cases, particularly sexual offenses or abuse in Rijswijk. It takes place in a dedicated studio, is fully recorded on video, and avoids repeated interviews to prevent trauma. This safeguards the protection of young residents of the Municipality of Rijswijk.
What does a studio interview entail in Rijswijk?
In Rijswijk, the studio interview for minors is used to obtain reliable accounts from children without harming their well-being. Unlike a standard police interview, it occurs in a relaxed space with toys, dimmed lighting, and no uniforms. A specialized interviewer follows protocols such as the National Coordination and Steering Protocol (LARD) for sexual offense cases. The recording serves as primary evidence in the Rijswijk District Court, so the child usually only needs to speak once.
This method is applied for suspected victims of sexual abuse or serious assault. Parents from Rijswijk may not be present during the interview to avoid influence, but a trusted person can watch via a live connection.
Legal basis in Rijswijk
The studio interview for minors is regulated in the Code of Criminal Procedure (Sv), relevant for cases at the Rijswijk District Court:
- Article 316a Sv: Specific rules for interviewing minor suspects, including video recording and the presence of a lawyer or trusted person.
- Article 226, paragraph 2 Sv: Permits video recordings of vulnerable witnesses such as children.
- Article 344 Sv: Interview of witnesses under 16 by an examining magistrate, often via police studios in the Rijswijk region.
The Public Prosecution Service follows guidelines such as the National Steering Protocol for Sexual Offenses Involving Minors. Under the Victim Empowerment Act (2017), forensic interviews are mandatory to enhance child protection in Rijswijk.
Course of a studio interview in Rijswijk
A studio interview for minors in Rijswijk follows a structured process:
- Preparation: Police or Public Prosecution Service in Rijswijk decides, parents are informed, and a psychologist conducts an intake.
- Interview: 45-90 minutes, building trust, using open questions, and filmed from multiple angles.
- Follow-up care: Discussion with parents and psychologist for support.
- Application: Video is transcribed for use in the Rijswijk District Court.
Repetition is rare and only if necessary.
Rights and obligations in a studio interview
Child's rights:
- Right to a trusted person, such as a family member.
- Explanation in simple language.
- Protection against multiple interviews.
- Free legal assistance via a pro bono lawyer or the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office.
Obligations: Answer honestly, but silence is permitted. Parents must cooperate; influencing is punishable (art. 180 Criminal Code).
Examples from Rijswijk
A 10-year-old girl from Rijswijk reports abuse by a family member. In the local studio, she tells her story using dolls, recorded on video. This leads to an arrest and spares repeated station visits.
In a loverboy suspicion involving a 16-year-old in Rijswijk, the interview reveals crucial information for prosecution at the Rijswijk District Court, while preserving privacy.
Comparison: studio interview vs. standard interview
| Aspect | Studio Interview for Minors | Standard Interview |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Child-friendly studio in Rijswijk region | Police cells or station |
| Recording | Full video | Often audio only |
| Number of times | Usually once | Multiple times possible |
| Interviewer | Child specialist | Standard officer |
| Parents present | Not during interview | Sometimes allowed |
FAQs for Rijswijk
Does my child have to participate in a studio interview?
No, testifying is voluntary. Suspects may remain silent (art. 316a Sv), but refusal may affect the investigation.
Can I view the video?
Parents can watch live or afterward with Public Prosecution Service permission. Contact the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office for details.
What if there's trauma after the interview?
Follow-up care by a psychologist is standard. Call Safe at Home or consult the Municipality of Rijswijk for help.
Is a lawyer present?
For minor suspects: mandatory (art. 316a Sv). For victims: optional via the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office.
Tips for parents in Rijswijk
- Preparation: Explain honestly what will happen, without steering details.
- Seek support: Call the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office for free advice (088-010 99 99).
- Follow-up care: Follow up on psychological support via the Municipality of Rijswijk.
- Court: Videos are handled at the Rijswijk District Court; request access via your lawyer.