Interviewing is one of the most important investigation skills. Poor interviews can contaminate evidence, create disputes and weaken findings.
Effective interviews start with preparation. The investigator should understand the allegation, evidence, chronology and purpose of the interview.
Questions should generally move from open-ended to more specific. Leading questions should be avoided unless clarification is required.
Statement taking should accurately reflect the witness’s version. The statement should be clear, chronological and signed where appropriate.
Investigators should document who was present, when the interview occurred, what documents were shown and whether the witness had an opportunity to review the statement.
Interviewers must remain objective. The purpose is to establish facts, not to force admissions or confirm assumptions.
Good interviewing and statement taking improves the quality of evidence and supports fair decision-making.
Author: Adrian van Straaten, CFE | IAFCI