The Cook County State's Attorney's Office recognizes the importance of Children's Advocacy Centers (CAC) in the investigation and prosecution of child abuse cases. We work closely with CACs in our jurisdiction, collaborating with their teams to provide a holistic approach to child victim support. By partnering with CACs, we aim to ensure that child victims receive the specialized services they need and that their rights are protected throughout the legal process.
A Children's Advocacy Center is a child-centered facility where professionals from various disciplines come together to address allegations of child abuse. These centers are designed to minimize trauma to the child by providing a safe and supportive environment for disclosures, interviews, medical examinations, and therapy sessions. CACs follow a coordinated and multidisciplinary approach, fostering collaboration among law enforcement, child protective services, medical professionals, mental health providers, and prosecutors.
Services Provided by Children's Advocacy Centers
- Forensic Interviews: CACs conduct specialized forensic interviews, conducted by trained professionals, in a child-friendly and non-threatening setting. These interviews aim to gather accurate and reliable information from the child, while minimizing the potential for re-traumatization.
- Medical Examinations: CACs often have medical professionals who specialize in the evaluation of child abuse cases. They provide comprehensive medical examinations to assess and document any physical evidence of abuse. These exams are conducted in a sensitive and child-friendly manner, prioritizing the child's comfort and well-being.
- Mental Health Services: CACs recognize the importance of addressing the emotional needs of child victims. They offer access to trauma-informed mental health services, including counseling and therapy, to promote healing and resilience in children who have experienced abuse.
- Victim Advocacy and Support: CACs provide victim advocacy services to child victims and their families, ensuring they have a voice throughout the investigative and legal processes. Advocates offer support, information, and referrals to community resources, helping families navigate the complex systems involved in child abuse cases.
- Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Collaboration: CACs facilitate collaboration among professionals involved in child abuse cases, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, child protective services workers, medical professionals, and mental health providers. This coordinated approach helps ensure a comprehensive and efficient response, reducing the burden on the child and their family.
Locations
Chicago Children's Advocacy Center
1240 South Damen Avenue, Chicago, IL 60608
312-492-3700
Children's Advocacy Center of North & Northwest Cook County
640 Illinois Boulevard
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
847-885-0100
LaRabida Children's Advocacy Center
6501 South Promontory Drive
Chicago, IL 60649
773-363-6700
Proviso Children's Advocacy Center
1820 S 25th Ave, Broadview, IL 60155
(708) 338-3806