What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Ma.
First I would like to thank all who reply to my thread!!
My child allegedly was "touched" by a trusted family member. She is special needs and disclosed this to a teacher at school. She doesn't understand that she was harmed in any way and continues to love the family member. She has had no contact with this person since we were notified about this.
She was interviewed by a Forensic Interviewer that is with the DA's office and they are pursuing this case. We (her father and I ) are going to be allowed to view the tape in order to understand what my daughter has stated to others. We haven't discussed this situation with her upon the advice of the DA.
As part of the process we (parents) have to undergo an DCF Evaulation...It has been disclosed to us today that my daughter will have to testify.
At this point we don't know that we want her to testify against this family member. She loves him deeply and we feel that if she were to understand that her testimony was instrumental in convicting him this could seriously harm her emotionally. We do understand the seriousness of this situation. But our biggest concern is to limit the emotional damage our daughter experiences.
Can a 6 year be subpoenaed to testify? If yes and the parents choose to not cooperate, can they be held in contempt?
Thank You all for your time and input.
First I would like to thank all who reply to my thread!!
My child allegedly was "touched" by a trusted family member. She is special needs and disclosed this to a teacher at school. She doesn't understand that she was harmed in any way and continues to love the family member. She has had no contact with this person since we were notified about this.
She was interviewed by a Forensic Interviewer that is with the DA's office and they are pursuing this case. We (her father and I ) are going to be allowed to view the tape in order to understand what my daughter has stated to others. We haven't discussed this situation with her upon the advice of the DA.
As part of the process we (parents) have to undergo an DCF Evaulation...It has been disclosed to us today that my daughter will have to testify.
At this point we don't know that we want her to testify against this family member. She loves him deeply and we feel that if she were to understand that her testimony was instrumental in convicting him this could seriously harm her emotionally. We do understand the seriousness of this situation. But our biggest concern is to limit the emotional damage our daughter experiences.
Can a 6 year be subpoenaed to testify? If yes and the parents choose to not cooperate, can they be held in contempt?
Thank You all for your time and input.