Studio Interview for Minors in Leiden
A studio interview for minors is a special interview for children and young people under 18 in criminal cases in the Leiden region, for example in cases of sexual offenses or assault. It takes place in a child-friendly room at the police station or linked to the Leiden District Court, with full video recording to avoid repeated interviews and minimize trauma. This optimally protects the child's vulnerable position.
What does a studio interview involve?
In Leiden, the studio interview for minors is designed to capture reliable accounts from children without burdening their psyche. Unlike a standard police interview, it occurs in a relaxed setting with toys, dimmed lights, and no uniforms. A specialized interviewer follows protocols such as the National Coordination and Management Protocol (LARD) for sexual offense cases. The recording serves as primary evidence in proceedings at the Leiden District Court, so the child usually only needs to speak once.
This is commonly used in (suspected) cases of sexual abuse, but also in serious assault. Parents are not allowed to watch to prevent influence, though a trusted person may sometimes join via live connection.
Legal basis
The studio interview for minors is provided for in the Dutch Code of Criminal Procedure (Sv), with key provisions such as:
- Article 316a Sv: Specific rules for interviewing minor suspects, including video recording and a lawyer or trusted person.
- Article 226(2) Sv: Allows video recording of witness statements, crucial for children.
- Article 344 Sv: Examination of witnesses under 16 by an examining magistrate, often conducted in police studios around Leiden.
The Public Prosecution Service follows guidelines such as the National Management Protocol for Sexual Offenses Involving Minors. Under the Victim Rights Strengthening Act (2017), forensic methods are mandatory, strictly applied in Leiden.
How does a studio interview proceed?
A studio interview for minors in the Leiden region follows these steps:
- Preparation: Police or Public Prosecution Service in Leiden decides, parents receive information, and a psychologist assesses the child.
- Interview: 45-90 minutes, building trust, using open questions, and multi-angle filming.
- Follow-up: Aftercare with parents and psychologist, often via local partners.
- Application: Video is transcribed for the hearing chamber or Leiden District Court.
Repetition is rare and only if necessary.
Rights and obligations
Child's rights:
- Trusted person (family or expert).
- Explanation at child-appropriate level.
- Protection against repetition.
- Pro bono lawyer, accessible via Leiden Legal Aid Office.
Obligations: Answer honestly, but right to silence applies. Parents must assist; influencing is punishable (art. 180 Sr).
Practical examples from Leiden
A 10-year-old girl reports abuse by a family member. In the studio at the Leiden police station, she tells her story using dolls; the video leads to arrest at the Leiden District Court. Without it, she would have to go to the station repeatedly.
In a loverboy suspicion involving a 16-year-old: The Leiden interview provides evidence for prosecution, protecting the victim.
Comparison: studio interview vs. standard interview
| Aspect | Studio Interview for Minors | Standard Interview |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Child studio in Leiden region | Police station |
| Recording | Full video | Audio or none |
| Number | Usually once | Multiple times |
| Interviewer | Child specialist | Regular officer |
| Parents | Not present | Sometimes present |
Frequently asked questions
Does my child have to participate?
No, witnesses participate voluntarily. Suspects have the right to silence (art. 316a Sv). Refusal may affect the investigation.
Can I view the video?
Parents may sometimes watch live or later with Public Prosecution Service permission. Not public, but transcripts in the case file.
What if there's trauma?
Aftercare via psychologist. Contact Leiden police, Leiden Legal Aid Office, or Safe at Home via Municipality of Leiden.
Is a lawyer present?
For suspects under 18: mandatory (art. 316a Sv). For victims: as trusted person.
Tips for Leiden residents
- Prepare: Explain honestly to your child what will happen, without steering details.
- Seek help: Call Leiden Legal Aid Office for free advice (phone number on their site).
- Aftercare: Request psychological support via Municipality of Leiden.
- Court: Follow the case at Leiden District Court for updates.