During a child abuse investigation, experts from several agencies must talk with the child. Before the Clark County Child Advocacy Center existed, children were taken back and forth among child welfare offices, Police Departments, medical clinics, and therapists. At each visit, the child was asked to retell his/her story. The process not only duplicated investigative efforts, it also made children relive their experience over and over.

Centralizing Experts
The CAC centralizes all the experts who must talk to the child. Children now need to come to only one place to talk to those investigating their abuse. They are interviewed by a forensic interviewer who has been specifically trained in this area. All interviews are recorded. The investigation is streamlined, information is shared, and decisions are based on more expert information. In addition, services such as medical evaluations and counseling are coordinated via the CAC. As a result, children are able to begin their healing process faster.

Working Together
Disciplines work together to conduct interviews and make team decisions about investigation, treatment, management and prosecution of child abuse. A multidisciplinary team approach brings all of the disciplines together to offer comprehensive services to children and their non-offending family members.