Page 15 - Juvenile Practice is not Child's Play

Full Scale 6-Stage Interview

Introduction Phase

• Steps while child is in detention
• Introduce yourself to child and/or parent
• Explain the need to meet with child alone

Private Meeting with the Child Phase

• Build Rapport

• Explain attorney/client privilege
• Discuss preliminary matters

Questioning Phase

• Ask client for facts, defense witnesses, and other matters pertaining offense
• Use information to prepare for trial and file any potential pretrial motions

Eliciting Social History Phase

• Ask for any current and/or previous accusations and/or convictions
• Ask for any other current/previous court cases

Instructions Phase

• Tell client to refrain from talking to the police or anyone about the case
• Let client know to promptly relay any new information to counsel

Interview with Parent Phase

• Conduct a separate interview with parent/guardian
• Have child present when conducting this interview